これにします
kore ni shimasu
In Japanese, "I take this" is expressed as これにします (kore ni shimasu).
The phrase これにします is used to indicate a choice or decision when selecting an item from several options, such as choosing a dish from a menu or an item in a shop. While English speakers often say "I'll take this" to imply the physical act of taking an object, the Japanese expression emphasizes the mental process of making a decision on that specific item.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, これにします means "I will make it this" or "I will decide on this".
Which one should you use?
While これにします is a standard way to state your choice, you can increase the politeness level by replacing これ with こちら to say こちらにします.
How does it change in a sentence?
The dictionary form これにする is the informal version. To express that you have already reached a final decision, you can use the past tense これにしました.
How do you pronounce it?
kore ni shimasu
Did you know?
- In Japanese, if you use the verb 'to take' (toru) literally when choosing an item, it can sound like you are physically grabbing it or even stealing it rather than making a selection.
- When using the polite version こちらにします, you are actually using a word that points to a direction rather than the object itself, which softens the impact of your decision.
- Japanese has a specific concept called 'enryo' or restraint, which means a person might say これでいいです ('this is fine') instead of これにします to appear less demanding.
Examples in context
- これにします。Kore ni shimasu.I'll take this.
- 迷いましたが、これにします。Mayoimashita ga, kore ni shimasu.I was undecided, but I'll take this one.
Example conversation
Misaki and Kenta are choosing a gift at a shop.
- 美咲 Misaki健太君、どれがいいと思う？Kenta-kun, dore ga ii to omou?Kenta, which one do you think is good?
- 健太 Kentaどちらも素敵だけど、美咲さんは？Dochira mo suteki dakedo, Misaki-san wa?Both are lovely, but what about you, Misaki?
- 美咲 Misaki私はこれにします！Watashi wa kore ni shimasu!I'll take this one!
- 健太 Kentaそれが一番似合っているよ。Sore ga ichiban niatte iru yo.That one suits you best.
