What does it mean word for word?
Watashi means "I" or "me". Nihongo means "Japanese". The particle o (written as を) is used to mark the object of the sentence, specifically marking "Japanese language" as the direct object of the verb "to speak".
Which one should you use?
While hanashite imasu refers to the continuous action of "am speaking" right now, the form hanashimasu refers to the general ability to "speak" Japanese or a future action.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Watashi wa Nihongo o hanashite imasu is the formal way to say the phrase. For a more casual setting with friends or family, you can use the informal version Watashi wa Nihongo o hanashite iru. In professional settings where you wish to show respect to a listener, the humble form Nihongo o hanashite orimasu can be used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The construction hanashite imasu uses the -te imasu form to indicate a continuous action that is currently in progress. The particle o (written as を) functions as an object marker.
How do you pronounce it?
watashi wa nihongo o hanashite imasu
When do people say it?
At a language exchange event, you might use the phrase Watashi wa Nihongo o hanashite imasu. Anata mo Nihongo o hanashimasu ka? to inquire if the other person also speaks Japanese.
Did you know?
- The verb hanasu comes from a root meaning 'to loosen' or 'to untie'. This suggests that speaking is viewed as 'loosening' one's lips or releasing words.
- Depending on the speaker's gender and social status, 'I' can be expressed as boku or ore instead of watashi. These versions change the tone from neutral or formal to masculine and casual.
- While English speakers often use 'I' as a standard subject, Japanese speakers frequently omit Watashi wa entirely if the context makes it clear who is speaking.
Examples in context
- 今、私は日本語を話しています。Ima, watashi wa nihongo o hanashite imasu.I am speaking Japanese right now.
- 驚かないで、私は日本語を話しています。Odorokanaide, watashi wa nihongo o hanashite imasu.Don't be surprised, I am speaking Japanese.
Example conversation
Two friends are practicing languages together.
- 美咲 Misaki大翔さん、何語で話しているの？Hiroto-san, nanigo de hanashite iru no?Hiroto, what language are you speaking?
- 大翔 Hiroto私は日本語を話しています。Watashi wa nihongo o hanashite imasu.I am speaking Japanese.
- 美咲 Misakiすごい！とても上手ですね。Sugoi! Totemo jouzu desu ne.Amazing! You are very good.
- 大翔 Hirotoありがとうございます、美咲さん。Arigatou gozaimasu, Misaki-san.Thank you, Misaki.
