When it comes to communicating effectively in a foreign language, knowing how to express common phrases like “reschedule” can be incredibly useful. In Japanese, there are various ways to convey this concept, depending on the level of formality and the context of the conversation. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “reschedule” in Japanese and provide you with tips, examples, and even some regional variations where necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “Reschedule”
When you need to reschedule an appointment, meeting, or any other formal engagement in Japanese, it’s essential to use polite language. Here are some phrases you can use:
1. 予定を変更する (Yotei o henkō suru)
This is a straightforward expression to convey the act of “changing plans” in a formal manner. It is a polite and commonly used phrase in business settings. For example, you could say:
すみませんが、予定を変更したいのですが。(Sumimasen ga, yotei o henkō shitai no desu ga.)
Excuse me, but I would like to reschedule.
2. 日程を再調整する (Nittei o saichōsei suru)
This phrase is more specific and formal, emphasizing the act of “rearranging a schedule.” It is often used in professional environments. Example usage:
お手数ですが、日程を再調整させていただきたいのですが。(Otesū desu ga, nittei o saichōsei sa sete itadakitai no desu ga.)
I apologize for the inconvenience, but I would like to reschedule the appointment.
Informal Ways to Say “Reschedule”
When communicating with friends or in casual situations, a less formal approach can be taken. Here are some informal phrases to reschedule in Japanese:
1. 予定を変える (Yotei o kaeru)
By simply dropping the polite suffixes, you can make this phrase more casual. It is commonly used among friends or in informal conversations. For instance:
すまん、予定を変えたいんだけどな。(すまん、よていをかえたいんだけどな。)
Hey, sorry, but I want to change our plans.
2. リスケする (Risuke suru)
Another way to express rescheduling informally is by using the English loanword “リスケする” (pronounced as “risuke suru”). This phrase is quite popular, especially among younger generations. An example usage:
あのさ、ちょっとリスケしたいんだよね。(Ano sa, chotto risuke shitai n da yo ne.)
Hey, I kinda want to reschedule, you know?
Tips and Examples
Now that you are familiar with both formal and informal ways to say “reschedule” in Japanese, let’s explore some tips and additional examples to further enhance your understanding:
Using “お願いします” (Onegaishimasu)
In Japanese culture, it is customary to add the phrase “お願いします” (onegaishimasu), meaning “please,” when making requests or asking for favors. You can incorporate it into your rescheduling phrases to convey politeness, like:
すみませんが、予定を変更したいんです。お願いします。(Sumimasen ga, yotei o henkō shitai n desu. Onegaishimasu.)
Excuse me, but I would like to reschedule. Please.
Offering an Apology
In situations where you need to reschedule, it is considerate to apologize for any inconvenience caused. Here’s an example:
すみませんが、急用が入ってしまって予定を変更したいと思います。ごめんなさい。(Sumimasen ga, kyūyō ga haitte shimatte yotei o henkō shitai to omoimasu. Gomen nasai.)
I’m sorry, but something urgent came up, so I would like to change our plans. I apologize.
Using Time Frames
When providing potential alternative dates or times for rescheduling, it can be beneficial to include specific time frames. Here’s an example:
次の週の月曜日から水曜日の間で、予定を再調整させていただければと思います。(Tsugi no shū no getsuyōbi kara suiyōbi no ma de, yotei o saichōsei sa sete itadakereba to omoimasu.)
I would appreciate it if we could reschedule sometime between Monday and Wednesday of next week.
Regional Variations
Japanese is primarily spoken in Japan, but there can be slight variations in expressions and dialects across different regions. However, when it comes to the keyword “reschedule,” the phrases mentioned earlier are widely understood throughout the country. Therefore, regional variations for this specific keyword are not significant.
Remember, the key to successful communication is not only learning the words but also understanding the proper context and using appropriate etiquette. By practicing these phrases, you will be well-equipped to navigate rescheduling conversations in Japanese with confidence and respect.
お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita) – Good luck and happy learning!
