Gaining some basic knowledge of Japanese phrases can be incredibly helpful, especially if you’re planning to visit Japan or have Japanese friends. Learning how to say “Let’s go” in Japanese is an essential phrase to have in your repertoire. Whether you want to express enthusiasm, suggest a group activity, or simply encourage someone to start moving, this guide will provide you with various formal and informal ways to say “Let’s go” in Japanese, along with tips, examples, and regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Let’s Go” in Japanese
When you need to address someone politely or in a formal setting, these phrases will come in handy:
1. 行{い}きましょう (Ikimashou)
This is the most common way to say “Let’s go” in a formal context. It is formed by combining the verb 行く (iku) meaning “to go” and the auxiliary verb ましょう (mashou) used to suggest an action. Together, they create a polite expression inviting someone to go somewhere or start an activity.
For example:
Person 1: お昼{ひる}ごはんを食{た}べましょう。(O-hiru gohan o tabemashou.)
Person 2: はい、行きましょう。(Hai, ikimashou.)Translation:
Person 1: Let’s have lunch.
Person 2: Yes, let’s go.
2. 参{まい}りましょう (Mairimashou)
In more formal situations, especially when visiting someone’s house or a traditional location, this phrase is used. It conveys a respectful invitation to go somewhere.
For example:
Person 1: 神社{じんじゃ}に参りましょう。(Jinja ni mairimashou.)
Person 2: そうしましょう。(Sou shimashou.)Translation:
Person 1: Let’s go to the shrine.
Person 2: Yes, let’s.
Informal Ways to Say “Let’s Go” in Japanese
When speaking with friends, family, or in casual situations, the following expressions are more suitable:
1. 行{い}こう (Ikou)
When addressing peers or using a casual tone, 行こう (ikou) is the preferred way to say “Let’s go.” It is formed by using the verb 行く (iku), meaning “to go,” in its volitional form.
For example:
Person 1: お祭{まつ}りに行{い}こう！(Omatsuri ni ikou!)
Person 2: いいね、行{い}こう！(Ii ne, ikou!)Translation:
Person 1: Let’s go to the festival!
Person 2: Sounds good, let’s go!
2. 行{い}くぞ (Iku zo)
A more energetic and forceful way to say “Let’s go” is 行くぞ (iku zo). This form adds emphasis and enthusiasm, making it perfect for exciting activities or motivating others to start moving.
For example:
Person 1: 海{うみ}に行{い}くぞ！(Umi ni iku zo!)
Person 2: すごい！行{い}くぞ！(Sugoi! Iku zo!)Translation:
Person 1: Let’s go to the beach!
Person 2: Awesome! Let’s go!
Tips for Proper Usage
Here are a few additional tips to ensure you use these phrases correctly:
- Always consider the formality of the situation and adjust your phrase accordingly.
- Using the person’s name or appropriate honorifics, like さん (san), after the phrase adds politeness and respect.
- Pausing before the phrase and using the person’s name intensifies the invitation and shows a strong desire to go together.
- Accompany the phrase with a friendly smile and open body language to express sincerity and warmth.
Regional Variations
While the expressions covered in this guide are commonly understood throughout Japan, there might be regional variations or dialects in different areas. However, these variations are not significant enough to hinder communication, especially for beginners. It’s always enriching to learn and adapt to regional nuances as you progress in your Japanese language journey.
Now that you are equipped with the knowledge of various ways to say “Let’s go” in Japanese, both formally and informally, you can confidently invite others to join you in exciting adventures or motivate them to start moving. Enjoy mastering these phrases, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese language and culture!
