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