In Japanese, expressing “please say” is commonly used to request someone to say something. This phrase can be useful in various situations, such as asking for a word, a sentence, or even a name. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to say “please say” in Japanese, along with some tips, examples, and regional variations if applicable.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Please Say”
In formal situations, it is important to use polite language to show respect and create a courteous atmosphere. Here are a few formal ways to say “please say” in Japanese:
- 言ってください (Itte kudasai) – This is the most common and straightforward way to say “please say” in formal Japanese. Itte comes from the verb iu (to say), and kudasai is the polite imperative form of kudasaru (to give).
- 申してください (Mōshite kudasai) – This phrase is slightly more formal than the first one. Mōshite is the polite form of mōsu (to say), which is an honorific expression.
- おっしゃってください (Osshatte kudasai) – This is an even more respectful way to say “please say” in Japanese. Osshatte is the honorific form of ossharu (to say).
These phrases can be used in formal settings like business meetings, academic contexts, or when conversing with someone of higher social status.
Informal Ways to Say “Please Say”
In casual or informal situations, such as talking with friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use less formal language. Here are a few informal ways to say “please say” in Japanese:
- 言ってくれ (Itte kure) – This is a casual expression to request someone to say something for you. Itte is the basic form of iu (to say), and kure means “for me” or “to me.”
- 言ってもらえる？ (Itte moraeru?) – This phrase is even more casual and includes the verb morau (to receive). It is a polite way to ask someone if they could say something for you. The question particle か (ka) is added at the end to indicate a question.
Remember to use these informal phrases only in appropriate contexts to avoid sounding disrespectful or impolite.
Examples:
Now let’s look at some practical examples to illustrate how to use the phrases mentioned above:
Example 1:
Formal: 色を言ってください。(Iro o itte kudasai.)
Informal: 色を教えてくれ。(Iro o oshiete kure.)
Translation: Please say the color.
Explanation: You can use the formal expression when asking someone to name or tell you a color. The informal expression is used when requesting the color from a friend or someone you have a close relationship with.
Example 2:
Formal: 名前をおっしゃってください。(Namae o osshatte kudasai.)
Informal: 名前を言ってもらえる？(Namae o itte moraeru?)
Translation: Please say your name.
Explanation: The formal expression is suitable for formal introductions or situations where you need to request someone’s name politely. The informal expression can be used when asking a friend or acquaintance to say their name.
Regional Variations
Japanese has some regional variations in language and dialects. However, when it comes to saying “please say,” the phrases mentioned above can be used throughout Japan without major differences. It’s worth noting that word choice and intonation can vary between regions, but the overall meaning remains the same.
Remember to adapt your language use based on the situation and the level of formality required. Using polite language shows respect and enhances communication with others, while casual language is suitable for less formal interactions.
With this guide, you should now be able to confidently express “please say” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Whether you are requesting a word, a sentence, or a name, these phrases will help you communicate effectively in various social contexts. Practice using them to improve your Japanese language skills, and remember to always be mindful of the appropriate level of politeness!
