Hello there! Are you interested in learning how to say “takeaway” in Japanese? Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan or simply curious about the language, this guide will provide you with all the information you need. In this guide, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways of expressing “takeaway” in Japanese. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When it comes to formal situations or polite conversations, there are a few different words and phrases you can use to convey the meaning of “takeaway.” Here are some common formal expressions:
- 持ち帰り (mochikaeri): This is the most commonly used word for “takeaway” in formal contexts. It literally translates to “carrying back.” For example, if you’re at a restaurant and want to order takeaway food, you can say “Mochikaeri onegaishimasu” (持ち帰りお願いします), which means “Please pack it to go.”
- テイクアウト (teikuauto): This is a borrowed word from English and is frequently used in formal settings as well. It is pronounced like “takeout” in English. For instance, you can say “Teikuauto ni shimasu” (テイクアウトにします) to mean “I’ll order takeaway.”
Informal Expressions
If you’re in a casual setting or having a conversation with friends or family, you might want to use more relaxed and informal vocabulary for “takeaway.” Here are a couple of options:
- 持ち帰り (mochikaeri): Yes, this is the same term mentioned earlier in the formal expressions. However, in casual conversations, it is common to drop the “お願いします” (onegaishimasu) part and simply say “Mochikaeri” when requesting takeaway.
- テイクアウト (teikuauto): Similar to the formal expression, “teikuauto” can also be used in informal situations. When speaking casually, you can say “Teikuauto ni suru” (テイクアウトにする) to indicate that you will get takeaway.
Additional Tips and Examples
Now that we’ve covered the basic expressions for “takeaway,” let’s explore some additional tips and examples to help you understand how to use them in context:
1. Ordering Takeaway at a Restaurant
If you’re dining at a restaurant and wish to order takeaway, you can use the following phrases:
「持ち帰りでお願いします」(「Mochikaeri de onegaishimasu」) – Can I get this to go, please?
「テイクアウトにします」(「Teikuauto ni shimasu」) – I’ll order this as takeaway.
2. Takeaway Food at a Supermarket
When you’re at a supermarket or grocery store wanting to buy ready-to-eat meals, you can use these phrases:
「お弁当を持ち帰ります」(「Obentou wo mochikaerimasu」) – I will take away a bento (boxed lunch).
「テイクアウト可能ですか？」(「Teikuauto kanou desu ka?」) – Is takeaway available?
3. Informal Conversation with Friends
In a casual conversation with friends, you can use the following expressions:
「このラーメン持ち帰るわ」(「Kono ramen mochikaeru wa」) – I’ll take this ramen home.
「テイクアウトにしようか？」(「Teikuauto ni shiyou ka?」) – How about getting takeaway?
These examples should give you a good idea of how to use different expressions for “takeaway” in various situations. Remember, language is all about context, so adapt these phrases as necessary to suit the specific scenario.
Though there aren’t distinct regional variations for saying “takeaway” in Japanese, it’s worth noting that certain dialects or local preferences may result in minor differences in pronunciation or vocabulary. However, the expressions covered in this guide are widely understood throughout Japan.
So, there you have it! Now you’re equipped with the knowledge to confidently order takeaway in Japanese. Whether you find yourself at a restaurant or a supermarket, these expressions will come in handy. Enjoy your meals on the go!
