Are you trying to learn Japanese for your planned tour? Or simply to make sense of real anime voices? Or just to survive a night with a Japanese acquaintance? If so, these phrases will surely be of help:
- Yoroshiku onegai shimasu. (silent ‘u’) Literally, it’s translated “Please look favorably upon me.” It simply means “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” You say this after the other person said “Hajimemashite” (Nice to meet you.)
- Sumimasen. A very useful phrase when you feel sorry or when you need to ask a favor. You may use this to say “I’m sorry” or “Excuse me.” An alternative for this phrase when you’re sorry is Gomennasai.
- Ano… A syllable used to express hesitation, signal your turn to speak or simply get someone’s attention. For instance, someone stepped on your foot (ashi), you may say: “Ano…sumimasen.. Ashi.”(Then point your finger to your foot.)
- Ojama Shimasu (silent u). When entering the house of a Japanese,you’ll leave a very good impression if you use this phrase. It literally means “Please excuse the intrusion.” Simply, it means “Excuse me” specifically when entering the host’s home.
- Itadakimasu (silent u). In Japan, it’s a custom to use this phrase before eating; it means “Let’s eat.” or simply a way of saying thanks for the food. Gochiso-sama deshita! (lose the “i” on – shita) is said when you finish eating. These phrases should be remembered as a pair when dining with a Japanese friend.
- Ki o tsukete. This phrase means “Take care“. It is usually said after “See You” or Ja mata or Ja ne.
I bet with those phrases, you’ll feel a bit ready for your first Japanese date! Oyasuminasai.
I’m not a Japanese speaker. I’m just an exuberant Japanesepod101 Absolute Beginner series listener. If you’re learning Nihongo, or you’re a fluent Japanese speaker, I would love to hear your input at the comment section.