Greetings! Are you interested in learning how to express dissatisfaction or disappointment in Japanese? You’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “how could you” in both formal and informal contexts. We will provide you with tips, examples, and even touch on regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Expressions
When addressing someone formally, such as a superior, colleague, or stranger, it’s important to use respectful language. Here are a few ways to convey the sentiment “how could you” formally:
a) どうしてそんなことができますか？(Doushite sonna koto ga dekimasu ka?)
This expression literally translates to “How can you do such a thing?” In formal settings, this is a polite way to express disappointment or surprise. The use of “dekimasu ka” (can you do) demonstrates respect and maintains a sense of formality.
Example:
If someone broke a promise to you, you could say, “どうしてそんなことができますか？(Doushite sonna koto ga dekimasu ka?) How could you break your promise?”
b) どうしてそんなことをなさったんですか？(Doushite sonna koto o nasattan desu ka?)
This expression is even more polite and formal. It roughly translates to “Why did you do such a thing?” By using “nasattan desu ka” instead of “dekimasu ka,” you are showing greater respect and indirectly addressing their action.
Example:
If someone acted irresponsibly, you could say, “どうしてそんなことをなさったんですか？(Doushite sonna koto o nasattan desu ka?) How could you act so irresponsibly?”
2. Informal Expressions
Informal language is used among friends, family members, or in casual settings. Here are two common ways to say “how could you” informally:
a) なんでそんなことするの？(Nande sonna koto suru no?)
This casual expression translates to “Why are you doing such a thing?” The informal tone is suitable when expressing disappointment or surprise to someone you are close to.
Example:
If your friend canceled plans last minute, you might ask, “なんでそんなことするの？(Nande sonna koto suru no?) How could you cancel our plans?”
b) どうしてそんなことをするんだよ？(Doushite sonna koto o surun da yo?)
This informal expression, which can be slightly more direct, means “Why are you doing such a thing?” It adds emphasis using “da yo” at the end, conveying stronger emotions or surprise.
Example:
If someone close to you forgets an important occasion, you can say, “どうしてそんなことをするんだよ？(Doushite sonna koto o surun da yo?) How could you forget?!”
3. Regional Variations
While the above expressions are widely used throughout Japan, it’s worth noting that there can be slight regional variations. Let’s look at an example from the Kansai dialect, commonly heard in the Osaka region:
あんた、どないしてんねん？(Anta, donai shiten nen?)
In the Kansai dialect, “どうして” (doushite) becomes “どないしてん” (donai shiten), and “んですか” (n desu ka) or “んだよ” (n da yo) becomes “ねん” (nen). This phrase can be used in informal contexts to convey disappointment or surprise.
Example:
If your friend has forgotten to return something they borrowed, you could say, “あんた、どないしてんねん？(Anta, donai shiten nen?) How could you forget to return it?”
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now learned various ways to express “how could you” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Remember to choose the appropriate expressions based on the level of formality and your relationship with the person you’re addressing. Whether you opt for the formal phrases like “どうしてそんなことができますか？” or the informal expressions like “どうしてそんなことするんだよ？,” you’ll be able to convey your disappointment effectively.
Don’t be hesitant to practice these phrases with native speakers or language exchange partners to improve your pronunciation and fluency. Keep in mind that language nuances and variations exist, so it’s always fascinating to explore different dialects like the Kansai dialect with its unique charm.
Enjoy your language learning journey and may your interactions be filled with kindness and understanding. Keep up the excellent work!
