· 3 min read
Japanese Greetings and Everyday Expressions
Master essential Japanese greetings and everyday expressions to confidently navigate daily interactions and communicate with native speakers.
Learn essential Japanese greetings and expressions to help you navigate daily life. In this article, we will cover a variety of common Japanese greetings, expressions, and phrases that you’ll encounter in everyday situations. It will help you build a strong foundation in practical communication and make your interactions with native speakers more enjoyable and meaningful.
Basic Japanese Greetings
- おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu): Good morning.
- こんにちは (Konnichiwa): Good afternoon.
- こんばんは (Konbanwa): Good evening.
- さようなら (Sayounara): Goodbye.
- ありがとう (Arigatou): Thank you.
Polite Phrases
- すみません (Sumimasen): Excuse me / I’m sorry.
- お願いします (Onegaishimasu): Please.
- どういたしまして (Dou itashimashite): You’re welcome.
- いただきます (Itadakimasu): Said before eating to show gratitude for the meal.
- ごちそうさまでした (Gochisousama deshita): Said after eating to express gratitude for the meal.
Self-Introduction and Asking for Information
- はじめまして (Hajimemashite): Nice to meet you.
- よろしくお願いします (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu): Please be kind to me (used after introducing oneself).
- 名前は何ですか (Namae wa nan desu ka): What is your name?
- どこから来ましたか (Doko kara kimashita ka): Where are you from?
- 日本語が話せますか (Nihongo ga hanasemasu ka): Can you speak Japanese?
Everyday Expressions
- いいですね (Ii desu ne): That’s nice / sounds good.
- 分かりました (Wakarimashita): I understand.
- 分かりません (Wakarimasen): I don’t understand.
- お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu): Good job / thank you for your hard work.
- 頑張ってください (Ganbatte kudasai): Good luck / do your best.
These greetings and everyday expressions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to mastering the Japanese language. To further enhance your Japanese communication skills, be sure to check out Nichijougo, a comprehensive guide to mastering the Japanese language as it is used in everyday life. With Nichijougo, you’ll learn not only new vocabulary but also practical usage through engaging and realistic conversation examples. Discover the exciting journey of learning Japanese, and remember: 頑張ってください (Ganbatte kudasai) – “Do your best” or “Good luck.”