Learning how to express the sentiment of “that was fun” in Japanese is a great way to enhance your language skills and connect with native speakers on a personal level. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this feeling in Japanese, along with some tips, examples, and regional variations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “That Was Fun”
When speaking in formal situations or with individuals such as superiors, elders, or strangers, it is important to use respectful expressions. Here are a few phrases you can use to convey that something was enjoyable:
1. Teni o tanoshimimashita
This phrase can be translated to “I had fun” or “I enjoyed myself.” It is a polite and commonly used expression to show appreciation for a enjoyable experience. The verb “tanoshimu” means “to enjoy,” and “teni o” is an honorific phrase to express gratitude.
Example:
Shigoto no omoshiroi kaigi o tanoshimimashita.
(I had fun at the interesting work meeting.)
2. Totemo tanoshikatta desu
This phrase translates to “It was very enjoyable.” It is a more descriptive way to express that you had a lot of fun and can be used in formal situations or when talking about an event or activity.
Example:
(The festival was very enjoyable.)
Informal Ways to Say “That Was Fun”
When talking to friends, family, or people of similar age or familiarity, a more casual expression can be used to convey a sense of closeness. Here are a few examples:
1. Tanoshi kata!
This phrase directly translates to “It was fun!” and is a simple and common way to express enjoyment in an informal setting. It is often used when talking about everyday activities or events with friends.
Example:
Sakki no eiga tanoshi kata!
(The movie we watched earlier was fun!)
2. Sugoku tanoshikatta!
This expression translates to “It was really fun!” and adds emphasis to convey a stronger sense of enjoyment. It is commonly used among friends to express enthusiasm and excitement.
Example:
Getsuyoubi no pātī sugoku tanoshikatta!
(Monday’s party was really fun!)
Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned above can be used throughout Japan, there are also regional variations in expressing enjoyment. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Osaka-ben: Meh, mojya tanoshikunai?
In the Osaka dialect, people often use phrases like “meh” and “mojya” to express “fun” and “not” respectively. So, when combined, the phrase says “Isn’t it not fun?” with a playful tone.
Example:
Osaka no kaisha no paatii meh, mojya tanoshikunai?
(Isn’t the party at the Osaka office not fun?)
2. Hiroshima-ben: Funyafunya waratta!
Hiroshima dialect incorporates phrases like “funyafunya” to express “fun” and “waratta” for “laughed.” So, when combined, the phrase means “I had fun and laughed.”
Example:
Kanpai kara no enkai funyafunya waratta!
(I had a lot of fun and laughed since the toast!)
Summary
In conclusion, learning how to express “that was fun” in Japanese allows you to share your enjoyment and connect with native speakers. Remember to choose the appropriate level of formality based on the context and relationship with the person you are speaking to. Whether you opt for the formal or informal expressions mentioned above, your enthusiasm and warm tone will surely be appreciated.
