How to Say “Remember This” in Japanese

When it comes to expressing the phrase “Remember this” in Japanese, there are various ways to convey this idea depending on the context, formality, and regional variations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal expressions, offering tips, examples, and insights along the way.

1. Formal Ways

Formal expressions are typically used in professional or more formal situations. Here are a few phrases you can use to convey “Remember this” formally in Japanese:

1. このことを忘れないでください。

Translation: Please do not forget this.

This is a polite way of asking someone to remember something. It is particularly suitable for professional settings, when addressing senior colleagues or superiors.

2. これは覚えておいてください。

Translation: Please keep this in mind.

This phrase implies holding something in your memory or remembering something important. It is often used in academic or serious settings to emphasize the importance of remembering a particular piece of information.

2. Informal Ways

Informal expressions are used in casual conversations with friends, family, or people of similar age or status. Below are informal phrases you can use to say “Remember this” in Japanese:

1. これ忘れんなよ。

Translation: Don’t forget this.

This form is commonly used among friends or peers. The casual tone includes the ending “なよ” to convey a friendly reminder while keeping the atmosphere relaxed.

2. これ絶対忘れるなよ。

Translation: Absolutely don’t forget this.

Adding “絶対” (zettai) before “忘れるなよ” (wasureru na yo) intensifies the expression, creating a stronger emphasis on not forgetting. This phrase is often used among close friends or family members when a stronger reminder is needed.

3. Tips for Usage

Regional Variations

While Japanese is primarily homogeneous across regions, there are slight variations and preferences when it comes to the use of certain expressions. Here are a few regional variations:

• 関西弁 (Kansai Dialect): In the Kansai region of Japan, people might use “覚えといてや” (oboetoi te ya) instead of “覚えておいてください” (oboete oite kudasai).
• 九州弁 (Kyushu Dialect): In Kyushu, “これ覚えとけよ” (kore oboe toke yo) may be used casually to mean “Remember this.”

Although these variations exist, they are not essential to everyday Japanese communication, especially for non-native speakers. It’s generally recommended to learn and use the standard Japanese phrases.

Using Polite Language

Polite language is vital when communicating formally in Japanese. Using the appropriate level of politeness shows respect to the other person. Using formal expressions like “ください” (kudasai) or “おいてください” (oite kudasai) is essential when speaking to superiors, teachers, or in professional settings.

On the other hand, when speaking casually with friends or family members, it’s acceptable to drop the polite language markers and utilize plain forms of verbs and phrases.

Contextual Considerations

The context in which you use the phrase “Remember this” is crucial. It’s important to consider the relationship with the person you are speaking to and the setting in which the conversation takes place. A more formal expression is appropriate in professional settings, while casual phrases work well in informal situations.

Additionally, nonverbal cues, such as tone of voice and body language, should align with the chosen expression to convey the intended meaning effectively.

4. Examples

Here are a few examples to further illustrate the usage of “Remember this” in Japanese:

• Formal:
  • この要点を忘れないでください。
    (Please do not forget this key point.)
  • これは大切な情報ですので、覚えておいてください。
    (This is important information, so please keep it in mind.)
• Informal:
  • これ忘れんなよ。
    (Don’t forget this.)
  • これ絶対忘れるなよ。
    (Absolutely don’t forget this.)

Remember to adjust the level of formality based on the situation and the relationship with the person you are speaking to.

By using these different phrases and considering the appropriate context, formality, and regional variations, you can effectively convey the idea of “Remember this” in Japanese. Enjoy practicing these expressions in your conversations and interactions!