What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the polite prefix o, the noun jama meaning hindrance or nuisance and the verb shimasu meaning to do. Literally, it translates to 'I am going to be a hindrance/nuisance'.
Which one should you use?
While お邪魔します is polite, when speaking to close friends or family, you might omit the polite prefix and say jama suru yo. In casual contexts, one might also use 悪いけど to mean 'sorry, but,' when asking for someone's attention or interrupting them momentarily.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
お邪魔します is a polite expression suitable for use with acquaintances, superiors or people you are not on intimate terms with. A slightly less formal version can be written in hiragana as おじゃまします, which is appropriate for both formal and informal situations.
How does it change in a sentence?
When leaving a person's home or private space, use the past tense form お邪魔しました to express that your visit is now over, meaning 'I have intruded' or 'Thank you for having me'.
How do you pronounce it?
ojama shimasu
Did you know?
- The word jama in お邪魔します is derived from a Buddhist term referring to demons or spiritual obstacles that hinder a person's progress toward enlightenment.
- In Japanese culture, the idea of being a 'nuisance' is so ingrained that you apologize for your presence even if the host has explicitly invited you and is eager for your arrival.
- Timing is critical: you should say お邪魔します exactly as you cross the threshold of the door, rather than waiting until you are fully inside the room.
Examples in context
- それでは、お邪魔します。Soredewa, ojama shimasu.Well then, pardon the intrusion.
Example conversation
Yota arrives at Yui's apartment for a study session.
- 陽太 Yotaお邪魔します。Ojama shimasu.Pardon the intrusion.
- 結衣 Yuiいらっしゃい、陽太君。Irasshai, Yota-kun.Welcome, Yota.
- 陽太 Yota今日はよろしくお願いします。Kyou wa yoroshiku onegaishimasu.I look forward to studying with you today.
- 結衣 Yuiこちらこそ。Kochira koso.Likewise.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries お邪魔します, CC BY-SA 4.0.
