Greeting someone with a warm “Long time no see!” is a great way to reconnect with friends and acquaintances you haven’t seen in a while. If you want to express this phrase in Japanese, there are several variations and levels of formality to consider. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to say “Long time no see” in Japanese. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Long Time No See”
Formal expressions are commonly used when talking to someone older or in a professional setting. Here are a few formal ways to say “Long time no see” in Japanese:
1. お久しぶりです (Ohisashiburi desu)
The phrase “お久しぶりです” is a polite way to say “Long time no see.” It is suitable for formal occasions or when talking to someone older or in a higher position.
Example:
田中さん、お久しぶりです。
(Tanaka-san, ohisashiburi desu.)
Long time no see, Mr. Tanaka.
2. お久しぶりですね (Ohisashiburi desu ne)
Adding “ね” at the end of the phrase makes it more conversational and helps maintain a friendly tone while keeping the formality intact.
Example:
花子さん、お久しぶりですね。
(Hanako-san, ohisashiburi desu ne.)
Long time no see, Hanako.
3. お久しぶりですが (Ohisashiburi desu ga)
“が” represents “but” or “although.” This phrase is useful if you want to express that it has been a long time since you last met but want to continue the conversation.
Example:
田村さん、お久しぶりですが、お元気でしたか？
(Tamura-san, ohisashiburi desu ga, ogenki deshita ka?)
Long time no see, Mr. Tamura! How have you been?
2. Informal Ways to Say “Long Time No See”
Informal expressions are commonly used among friends, peers, or those with a close relationship. Here are a few informal ways to say “Long time no see” in Japanese:
1. 久しぶり (Hisashiburi)
When speaking casually, you can simply use the word “久しぶり” to convey “Long time no see.”
Example:
おお、久しぶり！元気だった？
(Oo, hisashiburi! Genki datta?)
Long time no see! How have you been?
2. 久しぶりだね (Hisashiburi da ne)
By adding “だね” at the end, the phrase becomes more conversational and friendly.
Example:
なおみちゃん、久しぶりだね！
(Naomi-chan, hisashiburi da ne!)
Long time no see, Naomi!
3. お久しぶりだよ (Ohisashiburi da yo)
Addition of “だよ” adds emphasis and expresses a stronger sense of familiarity.
Example:
お兄ちゃん、お久しぶりだよ！何て元気そうなんだ！
(Oniichan, ohisashiburi da yo! Nante genki sounan da!)
Long time no see, big brother! You look so energetic!
Conclusion
Now you have a variety of ways to say “Long time no see” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Remember, using the appropriate level of formality is crucial when addressing different individuals or situations. Whether you choose a more formal or casual expression, your warm tone and genuine interest in reconnecting with someone will surely be appreciated. So, go ahead and greet your Japanese friends and acquaintances with your newly acquired phrases!
