ウィ、シェフ
ui, shefu
The phrase ウィ、シェフ (ui, shefu) is used in Japanese to say "yes, chef".
This phrase is a professional acknowledgment. It is used by kitchen staff to confirm they have understood an order or an instruction given by a head chef.
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is ui, shefu.
Did you know?
- The word ウィ is not a native Japanese word but a phonetic loan of the French word oui.
- The use of this phrase in Japan is heavily influenced by the global adoption of the 'Brigade de cuisine' system created by Georges Auguste Escoffier.
- While 'chef' is used in some modern kitchens, many traditional Japanese establishments will instead use the title 大将 (taisho) to address the head of the kitchen.
Example conversation
A professional restaurant kitchen during service.
- 陽太 Yotaこのソース、もう少し塩を足して！kono soosu, mou sukoshi shio o tashite!Add a little more salt to this sauce!
- 陽葵 Himariウィ、シェフ！wi, shefu!Yes, chef!
- 陽太 Yotaあと、お皿を温めておいてくれ。ato, osara o atatamete oite kure.Also, keep the plates warm.
- 陽葵 Himariウィ、シェフ。承知いたしました。wi, shefu. shouchi itashimashita.Yes, chef. Understood.
