How to Say “How Was Work?” in Japanese

Gaining insight into someone’s workday or expressing interest in their professional life is an excellent way to foster connections and build relationships. If you’re learning Japanese, it’s helpful to know how to ask the question “How was work?” in different contexts. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to ask this question, provide regional variations where necessary, and include various tips and examples along the way.

Formal Ways to Ask “How Was Work?”

When using formal language, it is essential to show respect and maintain politeness. Below are a few formal expressions to ask someone how their workday went:

1. “Shigoto wa doo deshita ka?” (仕事はどうでしたか？) – The most common and straightforward way to ask how work was in a polite manner. This phrase can be used universally in Japanese culture.
2. “Oshigoto wa ikagadeshita ka?” (お仕事はいかがでしたか？) – This expression also conveys a formal tone and politeness. It is a slightly more nuanced way of asking about someone’s workday.
3. “Shuushoku no houkoku wo o-negai shite mo ii desu ka?” (就職の報告をお願いしてもいいですか？) – This is a more elaborate phrase that asks for a work report politely. It is suitable for more formal or professional settings where detailed updates may be expected.

Informal Ways to Ask “How Was Work?”

Informal expressions are used among friends, close colleagues, or in casual settings. Here are a few informal phrases to ask someone about their workday:

1. “Shigoto wa dou datta?” (仕事はどうだった？) – This is a simple and commonly used informal expression to ask about work. It shows a friendly tone and is suitable for conversations with colleagues you have a good rapport with.
2. “Oshigoto wa dou itta?” (お仕事はどう行った？) – This phrase is slightly more casual but still maintains a polite undertone. It is often used when talking to someone you have a closer relationship with.
3. “Kinou no shigoto wa yokatta?” (昨日の仕事はよかった？) – This expression specifically asks about someone’s work from the previous day. It is a more specific inquiry, indicating your interest in their recent work experience.

Regional Variations in Asking “How Was Work?”

While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood across Japan, there are some regional variations and dialects. These variations add unique flavors to the language. Here is an example of a regional expression:

“Shigoto wa dou dattan?” – This expression is a variant commonly used in the Kansai region, which includes cities like Osaka and Kyoto. The “n” at the end adds a local touch without drastically changing the meaning.

Tips for Asking “How Was Work?” in Japanese

1. Context Matters

Consider the context and your relationship with the person you’re speaking to. This will help you choose the appropriate level of formality.

For example, it is best to use the more formal expressions when talking to your superiors at work or in professional settings. Meanwhile, informal expressions are suitable when conversing with friends or close colleagues.

2. Pay Attention to Verb Forms

In Japanese, the verb form changes depending on the level of formality. When asking about someone’s work, “deshita ka” or “datta” are more formal, while “dattan” is a regional and relatively informal variation.

3. Add Polite Prefixes and Suffixes

To add extra politeness to your question, consider using polite prefixes or suffixes. “O-” is a common prefix used in Japanese to convey respect, and adding “ka” at the end of a sentence turns it into a polite question.

Examples

Let’s look at some examples of how to use the phrases we’ve discussed:

• Formal:
  • “Kyou no shigoto wa dou deshita ka?” (今日の仕事はどうでしたか？)” – How was work today?”
  • “Oshigoto wa ikagadeshita ka?” (お仕事はいかがでしたか？)” – How did your work go?”
• Informal:
  • “Shigoto wa dou datta?” (仕事はどうだった？)” – How was work?”
  • “Oshigoto wa dou itta?” (お仕事はどう行った？)” – How did work go?”

Remember, it’s always crucial to use the appropriate level of formality based on the situation and your relationship with the person you’re speaking to.

By incorporating these phrases into your daily conversations, you’ll not only show your interest in someone’s work but also strengthen your bond and understanding of Japanese culture. Remember to practice these expressions with others to improve your fluency and build meaningful connections.