Learning how to say “take it” in Japanese is a useful skill to have, whether you’re traveling to Japan, interacting with Japanese speakers, or simply curious about the Japanese language. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this phrase, with various tips and examples to help you understand and use it correctly.
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Formal Expressions for “Take It”
When speaking formally or in more polite situations, you can use the following expressions to say “take it” in Japanese:
1. 取ってください (Totte kudasai)
取ってください。
“Totte kudasai.”
Translation: Please take it.
This expression is commonly used in formal settings and is the polite way to ask someone to take something. It’s considered respectful and appropriate for various situations, such as offering an object or passing something to someone.
2. お取りください (O-tori kudasai)
お取りください。
“O-tori kudasai.”
Translation: Please take it.
“O-tori kudasai” is another formal expression often used in shops, restaurants, or any setting where customer service is involved. The addition of “o” before “tori” adds politeness and respect to the phrase.
Informal Expressions for “Take It”
If you’re in a casual setting or speaking with close friends or family, you can use less formal expressions to say “take it” in Japanese:
1. 取って (Totte)
取って。
“Totte.”
Translation: Take it.
This is a simple and direct way of telling someone to “take it” in a casual context. While it may lack the politeness of formal expressions, it is suitable when interacting with friends, peers, or family members.
2. それを取って (Sore wo totte)
それを取って。
“Sore wo totte.”
Translation: Take that.
If you want to specifically refer to a certain object while telling someone to take it, you can use this expression. It adds clarity and is commonly used in informal situations.
Tips for Using “Take It” in Japanese
1. Modify phrases with polite particles
In Japanese, using particles can change the level of politeness or formality. For instance:
取ってくれ (Totte kure) – More casual, used with close friends.
取ってもらえますか (Totte moraemasu ka) – Polite request, used in formal settings.
By adding “kure” or “moraemasu ka” to the end, you can make the phrases more casual or formal, respectively.
2. Non-verbal communication
When saying “take it,” remember that non-verbal cues are also essential in Japanese culture. Hand gestures, body language, and facial expressions can help convey your message more effectively.
3. Understand cultural differences
Regional variations and dialects can influence how people express “take it” in Japanese. It’s best to stick to the standard and commonly used expressions provided earlier, as they will be understood by most Japanese speakers.
Examples of “Take It” in Context
Formal Examples:
- 店員：申し訳ありませんが、こちらをお取りください。(Ten’in: Moushiwake arimasen ga, kochira wo o-torikudasai.)
Shop assistant: I’m sorry, but please take this. - ホテルのスタッフ：お部屋までお荷物をお取りします。(Hoteru no sutaffu: O-heya made o-nimotsu wo o-torishimasu.)
Hotel staff: We will take your luggage to your room.
Informal Examples:
- 友達：これ、取ってよ。(Tomodachi: Kore, totte yo.)
Friend: Take this. - 家族：それを取って、台所に置いておいて。(Kazoku: Sore wo totte, daidokoro ni oiteoite.)
Family: Take that and put it in the kitchen.
Remember, mastering these phrases will greatly enhance your ability to communicate and interact in Japanese. Whether you opt for formal or informal expressions, using the appropriate language demonstrates respect and politeness. Enjoy practicing “take it” in Japanese and keep exploring the wonderful world of the Japanese language!
