Are you planning to meet up with someone in Japan? Want to express your excitement to see them? Learning how to say “looking forward to seeing you” in Japanese is a great way to show your eagerness and create a warm and friendly atmosphere. In this guide, we’ll explore both the formal and informal ways to convey this sentiment. So, let’s dive in and discover how to express anticipation in Japanese!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Expressions:
When speaking to someone in a formal setting or to someone senior or unfamiliar, it is important to use respectful language. Here are a few phrases to consider:
a) Tanoshimi ni shiteimasu (楽しみにしています):
This phrase translates directly as “I’m looking forward to it” or “I’m eagerly awaiting it” and can be used in various situations.
For example, if you are conversing with a colleague or someone you admire, you could say:
先週のプレゼンテーション、 楽しみにしています 。 (Senshū no purezentēshon, tanoshimi ni shiteimasu.) I’m looking forward to last week’s presentation.
b) O-shitaku-dōzo (お待ち申し上げます):
This phrase is a humble and polite way of expressing anticipation. It implies that you are waiting eagerly as they are superior or hold a higher position.
To use this phrase in a formal setting, you could say:
会議の日程が決まり次第、 お待ち申し上げます 。 (Kaigi no nittei ga kimari shidai, o-shitaku-dōzo.) I shall await the decision on the meeting schedule with anticipation.
2. Informal Expressions:
When talking to friends, family, or someone you have a close relationship with, you can use informal language to express your excitement. Here are a few phrases you can use:
a) Tanoshimi da (楽しみだ):
This phrase is a casual way to express your anticipation, and it can be used in various situations.
For example, if you are talking to a friend, you could say:
焼肉食べに行くの、 楽しみだ ！(Yakiniku tabe ni iku no, tanoshimi da!) I’m looking forward to going for yakiniku!
b) Mattekuru (待ってくる):
This phrase means “I will wait” but can also imply anticipation. It’s especially common among younger generations or close friends.
To express your anticipation using this phrase, try saying:
明日の公演、一緒に 待ってくる よ！(Ashita no kōen, issho ni mattekuru yo!) I’ll be waiting for the performance tomorrow with excitement!
Some Tips and Cultural Insights:
– Remember to use honorific language (keigo) when talking to people of higher status or in formal situations. It reflects politeness and respect.
– The use of emojis and emoticons in written Japanese can help convey your excitement further, especially in informal conversations.
– Non-verbal cues and body language, such as smiling or nodding, can greatly complement your expression of anticipation, regardless of the language used.
In Conclusion:
Learning how to say “looking forward to seeing you” in Japanese allows you to express your excitement to meet someone and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are using the formal or informal expressions discussed here, remember to tailor them to the specific situation and relationship with the person you are talking to. So go ahead, use these phrases with warmth and sincerity, and make your interactions in Japanese even more joyful!
