Useful Japanese Phrases for Beginning Speakers: Greetings, Goodbyes, and Polite Exchanges
This week we’re going to provide some useful phrases for entry-level Japanese language learners. Each phrase is presented in its original Japanese characters, followed by a romaji transliteration in parenthesis. Phrases are grouped by the situations in which they are used.
If you’re struggling with basic phrases or any other facet of the Japanese language, you can contact the Language Island in Atlanta. Our highly-qualified teachers offer classes that are custom-tailored to your individual needs.
Greetings
今日は (konnichiwa) – a generic greeting
おっす (ossu) – a greeting used only between close male friends
もしもし (moshi moshi) – a greeting used for answering the telephone
おはようございます (ohayō gozaimasu), おはよう (ohayō) – good morning
こんにちは [今日は] (konnichiwa) – good afternoon
こんばんは (konbanwa) – good evening
Goodbyes
さようなら (sayōnara), いって来ます (ittekimasu) – used when you are leaving
いってらっしゃい (itterasshai) – used when the other party is leaving
じゃあまたね (jā mata ne) – see you later
また会いましょう!(mata aimashou) – see you again!
Polite Exchanges
お元気ですか? (o genki desu ka?) – How are you?
はい、元気です。あなたは? (hai, genki desu. anata wa?) – I am fine. How are you?
お蔭様で元気です (o kagesama de genki desu) – I’m very well. Thank you for asking.
はい (hai) – yes
いいえ (iie) – no
お願いします (onegai shimasu) – please
どうぞ (dozo) – please, go ahead, after you
ありがとう (arigatou) – thank you
どういたしまして (dō itashimashite) – you’re welcome
結構です (kekkou desu) – no thank you
お世話になりました (o sewa ni narimashita) – thank you for everything
ちょっと待ってください (chotto matte kudasai) – one moment, please
失礼します (shitsurei shimasu) – excuse me, pardon me
お邪魔します (o jama shimasu) – sorry to bother you (a customary saying when entering a house)
乾杯 ! (kanpai!) – Cheers!
頂きます(itadakimasu) – a customary thank you said before eating a meal
ごちそうさまでした (gochiso sama deshita) – said after finishing a meal
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