Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “please” in Japanese! Politeness is an integral part of Japanese culture, and using the appropriate form of “please” is essential for effective communication. In this guide, we will explain the formal and informal ways to express “please” in Japanese, providing you with valuable tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
The Formal Way to Say “Please”
When speaking in formal situations or addressing people of higher rank or status, the most common way to say “please” is by using the word “kudasai” (ください). To use it properly, follow these tips:
Tips:
- Always place “kudasai” at the end of a sentence or request.
- Use the appropriate honorific language (keigo) when talking to someone of higher status, such as using “desu” instead of “da” for “to be”.
- Accompany “kudasai” with a verb or noun to form a complete sentence or request.
Examples:
- お手洗いはどこですか？お手洗いを教えてください。(Otearai wa doko desu ka? Otearai o oshiete kudasai.)
Translation: Where is the restroom? Please tell me where the restroom is. - すみません、お会計をお願いします。(Sumimasen, okaikei o onegai shimasu.)
Translation: Excuse me, please bring the check.
The Informal Way to Say “Please”
When speaking in informal situations or with close friends, family, or younger individuals, the word “onegaishimasu” (お願いします) can be used as a polite way to say “please.” Remember these points:
Tips:
- “Onegaishimasu” can be shortened to “onega” among friends or in casual settings.
- Place “onegaishimasu” or its variations at the end of your request or sentence.
- Unlike formal language, informal language may omit certain particles or honorifics.
Examples:
- この本を貸してください。(Kono hon o kashite kudasai.)
Translation: Please lend me this book. - ちょっと待って、お願いします。(Chotto matte, onegaishimasu.)
Translation: Wait a moment, please.
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal expressions described above are widely used throughout Japan, some regions have their own unique variations. Here are a couple worth mentioning:
Tips:
- These regional variations may differ in pronunciation, vocabulary, or phrase structure.
- Use them only if you are in the respective region or are speaking to someone familiar with that area’s dialect.
Examples:
関西弁 (Kansai-ben):
お願いします → おねえし
Translation: Please → Oneeshi
東北弁 (Tohoku-ben):
お願いします → ほんのすけ
Translation: Please → Honnosuke
Additional Tips and Etiquette
To ensure proper usage of Japanese etiquette when using “please,” consider the following tips:
Tips:
- When in doubt, opt for the formal versions. It is better to be overly polite than to accidentally offend someone.
- If you’re not confident in your pronunciation, observe native speakers or consult a Japanese language instructor.
- Always combine “please” with proper greetings and expressions of gratitude for a well-rounded interaction.
Examples:
- おはようございます。お手紙を送っていただけますか？(Ohayou gozaimasu. Tegami o okutte itadakemasu ka?)
Translation: Good morning. Could you please send the letter? - ごめんなさい、お水を一杯くださいませんか？(Gomen nasai, omizu o ippai kudasaimasen ka?)
Translation: I’m sorry, could you please give me a glass of water?
By following these guidelines, you will be well-equipped to use “please” appropriately in various social settings using the correct level of formality. Remember to always be respectful and considerate when communicating with others, and making the effort to speak Japanese will be highly appreciated by native speakers. Have fun and enjoy your Japanese language journey!
