Whether you are a tourist exploring Japan or have recently moved there, knowing how to express your desire to make a purchase is a helpful skill. In this guide, we will learn how to say “I want to buy” in Japanese, covering both formal and informal contexts. We’ll also provide some regional variations, though please note that these may not be applicable in every part of Japan. So let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “I Want to Buy”
When addressing someone in a formal setting or speaking to a stranger, it is crucial to use polite language. Here are a few phrases you can use to express your desire to buy something respectfully:
1. “Kōnyū shitai desu.”
Translated literally, this phrase means “I want to purchase.” It is a polite way to convey your intention to buy something and is suitable for most formal situations.
2. “Kōnyū o onegaishimasu.”
This phrase means “I would like to buy,” and it adds a sense of politeness and respect to your request. It is particularly useful when speaking to a shop assistant or someone providing a service.
3. “Kaimasu.”
“Kaimasu” is the polite verb form for “to buy” in Japanese. You can use it as a standalone statement to express your desire to make a purchase. It is a concise and formal way to convey your intention.
Informal Ways to Say “I Want to Buy”
When interacting with friends, family, or colleagues in a casual setting, you can use less formal language. Here are a few expressions to use informally:
1. “Kōnyū shitai.”
This phrase is an informal version of “I want to buy.” It is suitable for conversations with friends or people you are familiar with. Remember to use this expression only in a casual setting, as it might be considered impolite or rude in a formal context.
2. “Kau n da.”
“Kau n da” is a casual way of expressing your desire to buy something. It can be used in conversations among friends, siblings, or acquaintances. The “n da” at the end adds a casual tone, implying that you have a specific reason or explanation for wanting to make the purchase.
Regional Variations
While the above phrases are understood throughout Japan, some regions have specific words or expressions related to buying. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Kansai Dialect:
In the Kansai region, including cities like Osaka and Kyoto, people often use the word “Kounaru” instead of “Kau.” So instead of saying “Kau n da,” you can say “Kounaru n da.” Similarly, “I want to buy” can be expressed as “Kounaru tsumori” or “Kounaru shisō.”
2. Hokkaido Dialect:
In Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, some people use “Koopuru” instead of “Kau.” Although not as commonly heard as in the Kansai region, you might come across this variation during your visit to Hokkaido.
Tips for Using these Phrases
Now that we have covered the various ways to say “I want to buy” in Japanese, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Politeness is Key:
When in doubt, opt for the more formal expressions. Japanese culture places an emphasis on politeness and respect, especially when interacting with strangers or in formal situations.
2. Add “desu” for Politeness:
To make your requests even more polite, you can add “desu” at the end of the phrases. For example, “Kaimasu” becomes “Kaimasu desu” in formal settings.
3. Practice Pronunciation:
Pay attention to pronunciation when learning these phrases. Japanese has specific vowel sounds that may be different from those in your native language. Practice speaking with native Japanese speakers or utilize language learning resources to improve your pronunciation.
Examples
Let’s now see some examples of these phrases in action:
Example 1:
Formal setting:
Shop assistant: Irasshaimase! (“Welcome!”)
You: Kōnyū o onegaishimasu. (“I would like to buy.”)
Example 2:
Informal setting:
You: Kōnyū shitai! (“I want to buy!”)
Friend: Nani o kau no? (“What do you want to buy?”)
Example 3:
Regional variation:
You (in Osaka): Kounaru tsumori. (“I want to buy.”)
Shop assistant: Dōzo, omachishite orimasu! (“Please take your time!”)
In Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned a range of ways to express “I want to buy” in Japanese. Remember to adapt your language based on the level of formality required and the region you are in. Politeness and respect go a long way when interacting with people in Japan, whether you’re shopping or conversing with locals. Practice these phrases and enjoy your Japanese language journey!
