When traveling to Japan or dining at a restaurant, it’s essential to know how to express your desire to make a reservation. This guide will teach you the formal and informal ways to say “I would like to make a reservation” in Japanese. Additionally, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and numerous examples to ensure you feel confident in any situation.
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Formal Ways to Say “I Would Like to Make a Reservation”
Formality is significant in Japanese culture, especially during communication. Use these phrases when making a reservation at a high-end establishment, hotel, or any formal occasion.
“Sumimasen, yoyaku wo onegai shimasu.”
In English: “Excuse me, I would like to make a reservation.”
In this phrase, “Sumimasen” means “excuse me” or “sorry.” It is commonly used as a polite opening when seeking someone’s attention or requesting something. “Yoyaku” translates to “reservation,” and “onegai shimasu” means “I would like.”
Example dialogues:
- Customer: “Sumimasen, yoyaku wo onegai shimasu.”
- Staff: “Hai, dozo. Yoyaku wa nan-ji ni narimasu ka?”
- In English: Customer: “Excuse me, I would like to make a reservation.” Staff: “Yes, of course. What time would you like the reservation for?”
“Yoyaku wo shitaidesu.”
In English: “I would like to make a reservation.”
This straightforward phrase conveys your intention to make a reservation directly. It is less formal than the previous example but still polite.
Example dialogue:
- Customer: “Yoyaku wo shitaidesu.”
- Staff: “Wakarimashita. Nan-ji ni narimasu ka?”
- In English: Customer: “I would like to make a reservation.” Staff: “Understood. What time would you like the reservation for?”
Informal Ways to Say “I Would Like to Make a Reservation”
In a casual or familiar setting, such as with friends or at a more relaxed establishment, these informal phrases can be used to express your desire to make a reservation.
“Sumimasen, yoyaku shitaiんですけど.”
In English: “Excuse me, I would like to make a reservation.”
This informal phrase resembles the formal one mentioned earlier, but the change in the verb form makes it less polite. The addition of “んですけど” gives it a friendlier and colloquial tone.
Example dialogues:
- Customer: “Sumimasen, yoyaku shitaiんですけど.”
- Staff: “ええ、もちろんです。何時にしましょうか？”
- In English: Customer: “Excuse me, I would like to make a reservation.” Staff: “Yes, of course. What time would you like the reservation for?”
“Yoyaku shitaいんですけど.”
In English: “I would like to make a reservation.”
Similar to the previous informal example, this phrase utilizes the casual verb form “したいんですけど”. It conveys a more relaxed tone while still maintaining politeness.
Example dialogue:
- Customer: “Yoyaku shitaいんですけど.”
- Staff: “了解です。何時にしましょうか？”
- In English: Customer: “I would like to make a reservation.” Staff: “Understood. What time would you like the reservation for?”
Additional Tips and Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood across Japan, it’s important to note that there may be slight regional variations in vocabulary or pronunciation. Here are a few additional tips:
- Politeness: Japanese culture values politeness, so using polite language, such as “onegai shimasu” (“I would like”), is highly recommended.
- Timing: When making a reservation, be sure to mention the specific date and time you desire. If unsure, you can use “nan-ji ni narimasu ka” (“What time?”) to seek assistance.
- Local Phrases: Some regions may use local dialects or expressions. If you encounter a particular phrase during your visit, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
- Practice Pronunciation: To ensure effective communication, practice the pronunciation of the phrases and listen to native speakers to improve your intonation.
By following these tips and using the examples provided, you’ll be well-prepared to make a reservation in Japanese confidently.
Remember, politeness goes a long way in Japanese culture, so always prioritize respectful language when making reservations or engaging with others. Enjoy your journey through Japanese hospitality and savor every moment of your travel and dining experiences!
