Greetings! If you are interested in learning how to say “I watch” in Japanese, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this phrase, with some helpful tips and examples along the way. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions of “I Watch”
When speaking formally, Japanese typically uses polite language known as “keigo.” Let’s look at some formal ways to say “I watch” in different contexts.
1. Japanese Verb – 見ます (Mimasu)
The most common and versatile verb for “to watch” in Japanese is “見ます” (mimasu). To say “I watch” formally, you can simply say “私は見ます” (Watashi wa mimasu). Here, “Watashi wa” means “I” and is followed by the verb “mimasu” to indicate “watching.”
Example: 私は映画を見ます。(Watashi wa eiga o mimasu) – I watch movies.
In this example, “eiga” means “movies,” and the particle “を” (o) indicates the object of the sentence.
2. Honorific Expressions – ご覧になります (Goran ni narimasu)
When showing respect to others, Japanese incorporates honorific expressions. One such expression for “I watch” is “ご覧になります” (goran ni narimasu).
Example: その番組をご覧になりますか？(Sono bangumi o goran ni narimasu ka?) – Will you watch that program?
In this example, “sono bangumi” means “that program,” and the question particle “か” (ka) denotes a question.
3. Polite Verbal Nouns – 拝見します (Haiken shimasu)
Another formal way to express “I watch” is by using polite verbal nouns. One such noun phrase is “拝見します” (haiken shimasu), which translates to “to have a look.”
Example: そのドラマを拝見します。(Sono dorama o haiken shimasu) – I will have a look at that drama.
In this example, “sono dorama” means “that drama.”
Informal Expressions of “I Watch”
Now, let’s explore some informal ways to say “I watch” in Japanese. Informal speech is commonly used among friends, family, or in casual situations.
1. Verb Ending – ～る (Ru)
In informal speech, verbs typically end with “~る” (ru). The verb “to watch” is “見る” (miru).
Example: 映画を見るよ。(Eiga o miru yo) – I watch movies.
In this example, “yo” adds emphasis to the sentence, and it is often used in casual conversations among friends.
2. Colloquial Expressions – 観る (Miiru) or 見ちゃう (Michau)
Japanese colloquial language offers alternative expressions for “to watch.” Two commonly used terms are “観る” (miiru) and “見ちゃう” (michau).
Example: テレビを観るのが好き。(Terebi o miru no ga suki) – I like watching TV.
In this example, “no” connects the verb “miru” with the noun “suki” (like).
Regional Variations
Japanese has several dialects, each with its own unique phrases and expressions. While the basics of “I watch” remain the same, here’s an example of a regional variation:
1. Kansai Dialect – 観るやん (Miru yan)
In the Kansai region of Japan (including cities like Osaka and Kyoto), people often use “観るやん” (miru yan) to mean “I watch.”
Example: ええドラマ観るやん。(Ee dorama miru yan) – I watch a good drama.
In this example, “ee” means “good” in the Kansai dialect.
Wrap-up
Congratulations! You’ve learned various ways to say “I watch” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Remember to adjust your expression based on the level of politeness required in each situation. Regular practice and exposure to the language will help you further refine your understanding. Enjoy exploring the fascinating world of Japanese language and culture!
