Konnichiwa! If you’re interested in learning the various ways to say “plus” in Japanese, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you prefer formal or informal language, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore different phrases, provide helpful tips, and offer numerous examples to assist you in incorporating this keyword into your Japanese vocabulary. So grab your notebook, and let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Plus”
When it comes to formal situations, it’s essential to use appropriate language to convey politeness and respect. Here are some expressions for saying “plus” in Japanese formally:
1. ～プラス (Purasu)
This is a simple and widely used way to express “plus” in formal Japanese. Various nouns or phrases can precede “プラス” to indicate the addition or accumulation of something. For example:
- 数学プラス英語 (Sūgaku purasu eigo) – Math plus English
- 1年プラス2年は3年です (Ichinen purasu ninen wa sannen desu) – One year plus two years equals three years
2. ～に加えて (Ni kuwaete)
This phrase is suitable for more formal contexts and translates to “in addition to” or “along with.” It emphasizes the notion of adding something extra. Example sentences include:
- 僕は研究に加えてボランティアもしています (Boku wa kenkyū ni kuwaete borantia mo shiteimasu) – In addition to my research, I also do volunteer work
- 彼女は仕事に加えて家事もしているんです (Kanojo wa shigoto ni kuwaete kaji mo shiteirun desu) – Besides her job, she also does the household chores
Informal Ways to Say “Plus”
If you’re in a casual setting or conversing with friends, using less formal language can help you connect with others. Here are some informal ways to express “plus” in Japanese:
1. ～と (To)
“と” works as a versatile casual way to say “plus” in Japanese. It is often used when joining nouns, adjectives, or verbs in a sentence. For example:
- スポーツと音楽が好きです (Supōtsu to ongaku ga suki desu) – I like sports and music
- 今日本語を勉強とウクレレのレッスンがあります (Kyō nihongo o benkyō to ukurere no ressun ga arimasu) – Today, I have Japanese studying and ukulele lessons
2. ～にプラス (Ni purasu)
This phrase combines casual and formal elements by using “に” (ni) before “プラス” (purasu). It’s a popular choice among native Japanese speakers in informal situations. Examples include:
- 友達にプラス時間を使いました (Tomodachi ni purasu jikan o tsukaimashita) – I spent time with my friend, plus
- 映画にプラスディナーの予定です (Eiga ni purasu dinā no yotei desu) – Movie plus dinner is the plan
Additional Tips
Now that you’re familiar with different ways to say “plus” in Japanese, let’s go over some additional tips to help you master the phrase:
1. Practice Contextual Usage
Be sure to practice using these phrases in various contexts. Understanding when to use each expression will help you communicate more effectively in Japanese conversations.
2. Honorific Language
If you want to express “plus” politely with a sense of politeness, consider using honorific language in your sentence structure. For instance, using “ます” (masu) form verbs instead of plain forms can enhance the formality of your speech.
3. Use Hand Gestures
In addition to verbal expressions, you can also use hand gestures to visually emphasize the notion of “plus.” Showing an open hand with fingers extended and bringing them together can help reinforce your message.
Note: When using hand gestures, be aware of cultural differences and ensure their appropriateness for the situation.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to say “plus” in Japanese. We explored both formal and informal expressions, providing numerous tips and examples along the way. Remember to practice using these phrases in various contexts to enhance your language skills. Japanese is a rich and nuanced language, so be patient and enjoy the learning process. Ganbatte! (Good luck!)
