Japanese is a rich language with various expressions to convey different meanings. When it comes to expressing that something is interesting, there are a few ways to do so depending on the context, formality, and regional variations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying “this is interesting” in Japanese, providing essential tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When speaking in a formal setting or with someone you should show respect to, such as a superior or a client, you’ll want to use these phrases:
- これは興味深いです (Kore wa kyoumibukai desu): This is interesting.
- これは興味がありますね (Kore wa kyōmi ga arimasu ne): This is of interest, isn’t it?
- まさに興味津々です (Masani kyōmizutsu desu): I am very interested.
These formal expressions are appropriate in business settings, formal discussions, or when addressing someone of higher seniority.
Informal Expressions
If you’re speaking with friends, family, or in a casual environment, you can use the following phrases:
- これはおもしろい (Kore wa omoshiroi): This is interesting.
- これは面白いね (Kore wa omoshiroi ne): This is interesting, right?
- めっちゃおもろい (Meccha omoroi): This is super interesting.
These informal expressions are suitable for everyday conversations with friends, peers, or anyone you have a close relationship with. They convey a more casual tone and are widely used in informal situations.
Tips and Examples
Now that you have the basic expressions, here are some additional tips and examples to help you understand their usage better:
1. Use appropriate expressions based on the situation:
It is important to choose the right expression based on the context. For example, when discussing a movie or a book, you can use phrases such as:
この映画はとても面白かったです (Kono eiga wa totemo omoshirokattadesu): This movie was very interesting.
Or if you find a topic in a conversation interesting, you can say:
この話題は本当に興味深いですね (Kono wadai wa hontōni kyōmibukai desu ne): This topic is really interesting, isn’t it?
2. Add emphasis using adverbs:
If you want to express a stronger sense of interest, you can use adverbs to emphasize your statement. For instance:
それはとってもおもしろかった (Sore wa tottemo omoshirokatta): That was very interesting.
Using adverbs like “tottemo” (very) adds emphasis and conveys your heightened interest in the subject.
3. Consider the use of particles:
Particles play a significant role in Japanese sentence structure. When using phrases like “これは興味深いです” (This is interesting.) or “これはおもしろいね” (This is interesting, right?), the particle “は” (wa) emphasizes the subject. Similarly, the particle “ね” (ne) encourages agreement or confirmation in informal conversations.
4. Nonverbal Communication:
In Japanese culture, nonverbal communication helps express interest too. Alongside the phrases mentioned, using positive body language like nodding, smiling, or maintaining eye contact helps convey your interest more effectively.
Regional Variations
While the phrases covered in this guide are universally understood and used in Japan, there may be some regional variations that modify the expressions slightly. However, it is important to note that such variations are minor, and the phrases mentioned above will work well in almost any part of Japan.
Practice and Master
Learning how to say “this is interesting” in Japanese is just the beginning. Practice using these phrases in different situations and conversations to become more comfortable with their usage. Additionally, exposing yourself to Japanese media, such as movies, TV shows, and books, will further enhance your understanding of how the language is used naturally.
Remember, communicating with enthusiasm and interest in the Japanese language can open doors to deeper connections and better understanding. Enjoy exploring the vast and fascinating world of Japanese expressions!
