Cooking is not only a skill but also a way to express love and creativity through food. If you are interested in the Japanese culinary world or simply want to communicate your passion for cooking with Japanese speakers, it’s valuable to know how to say “I am cooking” in Japanese. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to express this phrase, providing you with various tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Phrases
When speaking in formal situations or with people you are not familiar with, it is essential to use polite language. Here are a few ways to express “I am cooking” formally in Japanese:
1. The Verb: “Ryouri wo shiteimasu”
The most common way to say “I am cooking” formally is by using the verb “shimasu” (to do) in combination with the noun “ryouri” (cooking/meal). This phrase can be expressed as:
私は料理をしています。
Watashi wa ryouri wo shiteimasu.
This sentence translates literally to “I am doing cooking/meals” and conveys the meaning of “I am cooking” in Japanese. Remember to use “watashi wa” at the beginning to indicate that it is “I” who is cooking.
2. Verb Stem + “Kaketeimasu”
Another way to express “I am cooking” formally is by using the verb stem of the verb “tabemasu” (to eat) with the word “kaketeimasu” (to make). This phrase implies the act of preparing a meal and can be constructed as follows:
私は食べかけています。
Watashi wa tabe kaketeimasu.
Although it may seem unusual to use the verb “eat” when talking about cooking, this phrase is commonly understood in Japanese and can be used interchangeably with the previous example. It literally means “I am in the process of making (preparing) food.”
Informal Phrases
In more casual situations, such as when speaking with friends, family, or peers, you can opt for less formal expressions. Here are a couple of ways to say “I am cooking” informally in Japanese:
1. The Verb: “Ryouri suru”
Informally, you can simply use the verb “suru” (to do/make) in combination with the noun “ryouri” (cooking/meal). This phrase can be expressed as:
私は料理する。
Watashi wa ryouri suru.
By using the verb “suru,” this sentence conveys the same meaning as the formal expression, but in a more relaxed and casual manner. Remember to drop “shiteimasu” and end the sentence with “suru.”
2. The Verb: “Tabe kaketeiru”
In informal contexts, where the subject is clear from the context or the conversation, you can use the phrase “tabe kaketeiru” (in the process of cooking) to express “I am cooking.” This construction can be used as follows:
料理作ってる。
Ryouri tabe kaketeiru.
This shorter and less structured sentence is commonly heard in everyday conversations. It uses the verb “tabe” (to eat) along with “kaketeiru,” which means “in the process of doing.” It implies that you are currently involved in the cooking process.
Tips for Using the Phrases
1. Adding Manners: Soudesu yo
To sound more polite and considerate when you say “I am cooking,” you can add the phrase “soudesu yo” at the end of the sentence. This expression conveys a sense of “That’s right” or “I’m really doing it, you know,” providing a polite touch. For example:
私は料理をしています、そうですよ。
Watashi wa ryouri wo shiteimasu, soudesu yo.
Adding “soudesu yo” can show your enthusiasm and help build rapport with the listener, emphasizing your commitment to cooking.
2. Using Pronouns Sparingly
In Japanese, it is common to drop pronouns like “watashi” (I) when the subject is clear from the conversation or context. So, unless it’s necessary for clarification or emphasis, you can remove “watashi wa” from the sentences mentioned earlier. For instance:
料理作っているんだ。
Ryouri tabe kaketeiru n da.
By removing “watashi wa,” the informal phrase sounds more natural and conversational.
Regional Variations
Japanese is spoken across various regions, and some words or phrases may have regional variations. However, when it comes to expressing “I am cooking,” the variations remain minimal. The phrases explained above are widely understood and used throughout Japan, so you don’t need to worry about specific regional alterations in this case.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned how to say “I am cooking” in various ways in Japanese. Now you can confidently express your passion for cooking in both formal and informal situations. Remember the key phrases we discussed: “Watashi wa ryouri wo shiteimasu” and “Watashi wa tabe kaketeimasu” for formal contexts, and “Watashi wa ryouri suru” and “Ryouri tabe kaketeiru” for informal situations. Make sure to utilize additional expressions like “soudesu yo” and drop unnecessary pronouns when appropriate. Keep practicing these phrases, and soon you will effortlessly incorporate them into your conversations with Japanese speakers.
