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🤵‍♂️Polite language from the Beginner level!🙏

  • Writer: tomo-japanese
    tomo-japanese
  • Feb 1, 2024
  • 2 min read

Hello, everyone! 😄


In Japanese, "kēgo" (敬語) is crucial, used in formal settings like work or with superiors. 🤵‍♂️


In public spaces, politeness with strangers is common.


Casual speech is natural among friends, family, and in relaxed environments, helping navigate conversations appropriately.👨‍👩‍👧‍👦


Today, I introduce the fascinating Japanese world.


Let's explore essential polite expressions and compare them with casual counterparts to understand nuances.😀


  1. When you show your gratitude - Thank you🙏

Polite: ありがとうございます (Arigatō gozaimasu) express gratitude, for example when someone helps with studies.


Less Formal: "ありがとう" (Arigatō) is casual, suitable among close friends.


  1. When you ask somebody’s name - What is your name?🙋

Polite: おなまえは? (Onamae wa?) inquire about someone's name when meeting for the first time.


Less Formal: “なまえは?" (Namae wa?) is acceptable in casual settings.


  1. When you ask somebody’s home - Where is your home? 🏠

Polite: “おうちは どちらですか。" (Ouchi wa dochira desu ka.) is used in formal situations to ask directions in the first meeting situation, showing respect.


Less Formal: “うちは どこですか。” (Uchi wa doko desu ka.) is suitable with friends or students’ first meeting situation in on their campus, but use caution in formal contexts.






  1. When you make an order in a restaurant - Please🍽️

Polite: "おみずを おねがいします。" (Omizu o onegai shimasu.) sounds like “Can I have some water, please?” In English. So, the waiter will appreciate to serve you water.


Casual: “みず ください。" (Mizu kudasai.) yes, you may get what you want, however it might sound a bit childish too.


Understanding the balance between politeness and informality is crucial.


These examples offer a foundation for navigating social situations in Japanese.


Gain confidence in selecting the appropriate level of formality based on context during your language exploration! 🌎


ありがとうございます!🍀

ゆうた

 
 
 

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