How to Say Reminder in Japanese

When it comes to communicating a friendly reminder in Japanese, it’s important to consider the context and level of formality. Japanese language incorporates various expressions and vocabulary nuances based on the relationship between the speaker and the listener. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say a reminder in Japanese, both formally and informally, and provide valuable tips and examples to help you navigate through these expressions smoothly.

Formal Ways to Say Reminder

When addressing someone formally or in a professional setting, it is essential to use appropriate language. Here are a few formal expressions to use when reminding someone:

1. お知らせ (Oshirase) – This word depicts a formal way to say “reminder” or “notification” in Japanese. It is commonly used in business or official contexts. For example:
   

   Oshirase: Kinenbi ni chuyō na koto ga arimasu. (Reminder: There are important matters on the anniversary date.)

2. ご案内 (Goannai) – This term is often used in formal situations to mean “notice” or “announcement.” It can be utilized as a polite reminder. For instance:
   

   Goannai: Yōshiki o wasurenaide kudasai. (Reminder: Please do not forget the formalities.)

3. 再確認のお願い (Saikakunin no onegai) – This expression translates to “request for confirmation again” and is used when you want to emphasize the importance of the reminder. For example:
   

   Saikakunin no onegai: Kōkan-bango o shinchaku shichatta kamo shiremasen. (Reminder: You may want to double-check the contact number.)

Informal Ways to Say Reminder

In casual conversations or when communicating with friends, colleagues, or someone of lower social status, you have the flexibility to use more relaxed language. Here are some informal ways to express a reminder:

1. 思い出させておく (Omoidasaseteoku) – This phrase means “let me remind you” and is often used in everyday conversations. For example:
   

   Omoidasaseteoku: Ressun wa 10-ji kara desu yo. (Just reminding you: The lesson starts at 10 o’clock.)

2. ちょっと忘れ物 (Chotto wasuremono) – This expression translates to “a little something forgotten” and can be used to remind someone about a minor detail. For instance:
   

   Chotto wasuremono: Aitemu o motteiku no wa wasurenaide ne. (Reminder: Don’t forget to bring the item with you.)

3. 覚えてる？ (Oboeteru?) – This is a casual way to ask “Do you remember?” or “Can you recall?” when reminding someone about something. For example:
   

   Oboeteru?: Kyō, gakkō de goshūnin shite ne. (Reminder: Remember to come to school today.)

Regional Variations

While the formal and informal expressions mentioned previously are widely understood across Japan, there are some regional variations worth mentioning. These variations are not necessarily restricted to specific regions, but they might sound more natural or have a hint of local flavor in certain areas. Here are a couple of examples:

Kansai Dialect:

In the Kansai region, which includes cities like Osaka and Kyoto, people tend to use the following expressions:

• おまたせ (Omatase) – This phrase means “sorry for the wait” and is often used as a gentle reminder when someone is running late or taking longer than expected. For instance:
  

  Omatase: Tsugō no shōmyō ni kakawari, jikan ga kakaru kamo shiremasen ga, okaeri no toki ni wa yōshiku omoimasu. (Reminder: It might take some time due to circumstances, but please take your time coming back home.)

• 忘れ物してない？ (Wasuremono shitenai?) – This is a Kansai variation of the phrase “Did you forget something?” It is commonly used among friends and acquaintances. For example:
  

  Wasuremono shitenai?: Obentō o toru no wa wasuretenai? (Reminder: Don’t forget to take your lunch box with you.)

Conclusion

In Japanese, reminding someone can be done in several ways, depending on the formality of the situation and the relationship between the speaker and the listener. It is vital to consider the appropriate expression to use to maintain proper communication etiquette. Whether it is a formal or informal reminder, understanding the various options will help you navigate different contexts with ease. Remember to adapt your language to suit the situation and maintain a warm and friendly tone throughout your conversation. Now, armed with these expressions, you are ready to engage in Japanese conversations while seamlessly incorporating reminders.