見ているだけです
mite iru dake desu
In Japanese, "just browsing" is expressed as 見ているだけです (mite iru dake desu).
This phrase is the standard polite way to respond to a shop assistant who asks if you need help, such as when they ask 何かお探しですか？ It communicates that you are looking at items without needing any assistance.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb miru (to see/look), the continuous form te iru (is doing) and dake (only/just).
How does it change in a sentence?
Dropping the desu at the end of the phrase makes it informal.
How do you pronounce it?
mite iru dake desu
Did you know?
- In Japanese, the word miru used in this phrase can describe anything from a quick glance to watching a movie or even visiting a doctor.
- In Japan, 'just browsing' is often a polite way to avoid the social obligation of a long conversation with a salesperson, rather than a statement about one's actual shopping intent.
- While 見ているだけです is a safe response, many locals prefer to use a simple polite nod or a small hand wave to signal they are browsing without saying a word.
Examples in context
- 見ているだけです。I'm just browsing.This sentence is useful for practicing how to say "I'm just browsing."Tatoeba #2413217 by tommy_san, translation #13166619 by atitarev
- すみません、今は見ているだけです。Sumimasen, ima wa mite iru dake desu.Excuse me, I am just browsing right now.
- 大丈夫です、見ているだけです。Daijoubu desu, mite iru dake desu.It's okay, I'm just browsing.
Example conversation
Kenta is working at a clothing store and approaches Himari.
- 健太 Kenta何かお探しですか？Nanika osagashi desu ka?Are you looking for something?
- 陽葵 Himariいいえ、見ているだけです。Iie, mite iru dake desu.No, I'm just browsing.
- 健太 Kentaかしこまりました。ごゆっくりどうぞ。Kashikomarimashita. Goyukkuri douzo.Understood. Please take your time.
- 陽葵 Himariありがとうございます。Arigatou gozaimasu.Thank you.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
