How to Say Invitation in Japanese

When it comes to expressing the concept of “invitation” in Japanese, there are several formal and informal phrases you can use depending on the context. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say invitation in Japanese, including examples and regional variations.

Formal Expressions for Invitation

Formal invitations are typically used for official events, business meetings, or when addressing someone of higher authority. Here are a few phrases you can use:

1. Shōtai (招待): This is the most general and formal term for invitation in Japanese. It can be used for both formal and informal occasions. For example, you can say:

Watashitachi no gēmu ni shōtai shimasu. (私たちのゲームに招待します。) – We invite you to our game.

Junbi o suru (準備をする): This phrase translates to “to make preparations” and can be used to indicate that you are preparing for an event. It implies that the recipient is invited, especially if they are involved in the preparations. For example:

Watashitachi no posutā pātī ni junbi o shite imasu. (私たちのポスターパーティーに準備をしています。) – We are preparing for our poster party.

Mukae ni iku (迎えに行く): This phrase means “to go pick up someone” and can be used to invite someone to an event or gathering. It’s a polite way to extend an invitation. For example:

Anata o issho ni rizōto retorenzu basho e mukae ni ikimasu. (あなたを一緒にリゾートレトレンズ場所へ迎えに行きます。) – I will pick you up to go to the resort retreat together.

Informal Expressions for Invitation

Informal invitations are used for casual events among friends, family, or acquaintances. Here are a few phrases commonly used:

1. Yōki o motsu (養気を持つ): This phrase means “to hold a get-together” and is commonly used to invite someone to a casual gathering at home or a small event. For example:

Kyō wa watashitachi no ie de parti-īto o yōki shimasu. (今日は私たちの家でパーティーを養気します。) – Today, we’re having a party at our house.

Issho ni iku (一緒に行く): This is a simple and informal phrase meaning “to go together.” It can be used to invite someone for a night out, a movie, or any casual event. For example:

Konban, eiga ni issho ni ikimashō! (今晩、映画に一緒に行きましょう！) – Let’s go to the movies tonight!

O-jama shimasu (お邪魔します): This phrase is used when visiting someone’s house and can be used as a casual way to invite yourself over. For example:

Sotto kyō wa anata no ie ni o-jama shimasu. (そっと今日はあなたの家にお邪魔します。) – May I come over to your place today?

Regional Variations

While the majority of the phrases mentioned above are understood throughout Japan, there might be some regional variations. Here’s an example of how the Kansai dialect may differ:

1. Yukari kuru (ゆかりくる): In the Kansai dialect, this phrase is used to invite someone to an event or gathering. For example:

Kyō wa bōei-senta no kōen ni yukari koyō to suru. (今日は防衛センターの講演にゆかりこようとする。) – Let’s go to the lecture at the Defense Center today.

Tips for Invitations in Japanese

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while using Japanese for invitations:

1. Politeness: Japanese culture emphasizes politeness, so it is essential to use polite language while extending formal invitations, especially in business settings.
2. Context: Make sure to consider the context and relationship you have with the person you are inviting. Choose the appropriate level of formality accordingly.
3. Timing: When issuing an invitation, try to provide sufficient time for the invitee to make arrangements. It is customary to give at least a few days’ notice for formal events and gatherings.
4. Non-verbal invitations: In some cases, non-verbal invitations might be more appropriate. For example, handing out physical or written invitations can be a polite way to convey the message.