あらまあ、さようなら
ara maa, sayounara
The English phrase "oh my goodbye" is translated into Japanese as あらまあ、さようなら (ara maa, sayounara).
This phrase is an expression of surprise or dismay used immediately before saying goodbye.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of the interjection あらまあ and the word さようなら, which means "goodbye".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The interjection あらまあ is typically associated with feminine speech patterns. For more informal farewells among friends or acquaintances, you might use Ja ne or the English-derived Bye bye, which is common among younger generations.
How do you pronounce it?
ara maa, sayounara
Did you know?
- The word さようなら is derived from a phrase meaning 'if it be so', which originally functioned as a way to accept an inevitable parting.
- If a person says さようなら in a romantic relationship, it is frequently interpreted as a definitive breakup rather than a simple farewell.
- The interjection あらまあ is often perceived as the speech style of an 'ojousama', a refined lady or a polite older woman. Using it in a professional setting might make you sound like a character from a classic novel.
Example conversation
Two friends realize their train is arriving and must part ways.
- 陽太 Yotaあ、電車が来たよ。a, densha ga kita yo.Oh, the train is here.
- 陽葵 Himariあらまあ、さようなら！急がないと。aramaa, sayounara! isoganaito.Oh my, goodbye! I have to hurry.
- 陽太 Yotaうん、また連絡するね。un, mata renraku suru ne.Yeah, I'll be in touch.
- 陽葵 Himari待ってるね。バイバイ！matteru ne. baibai!I'll be waiting. Bye-bye!
