This article provides a list of useful Japanese phrases that you can use, from basic self-introduction to phrases convenient for making conversation. Let's master these expressions and make new friends in Japan!
With a few Japanese greetings on hand, being in Japan will be more fun.
In this article, we have compiled a list of useful Japanese phrases that you can use, from basic self-introduction to phrases useful for daily communication.
If you want to boost your Japanese language skills through online or in-person lessons, consider applying for a course at Tokyo Central Japanese Language School (TCJ).
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This phrase is used to greet someone you meet for the first time. Let's practice speaking in Japanese!
2. My name is ◯◯.
[watashino namaewa ◯◯des]
This phrase is used to introduce your name.
If you have a nickname, you say
"Please call me 〇〇."
[〇〇to yonde kudasai]
Example
My name is Tanaka Miki.
[watashino namaewa tanaka mikikodes]
Please call me Miki.
[mikito yonde kudasai]
3. I am from ◯◯.
[◯◯kara kimashita]
Insert the name of your country into 〇〇 to introduce where you are from to others.
Example
I am from America.
[amerikakara kimashita]
4. I am a ◯◯.
[watashiwa ◯◯des]
Insert your occupation, such as student (gakusei), company employee (kaishain), into 〇〇 when introducing your occupation to others.
Example
I am a student.
[watashiwa gakuseides]
I am a designer.
[watashiwa dezaina:des]
5. Nice to meet you! / Thank you for your time / Please keep me in mind
[yoroshiku onegai shimas]
This phrase is used at the end of self-introductions. It can also be used in various situations, like when asking for a favor and signing off an e-mail. It is a convenient phrase to express politeness.
Learning More About Others in Japanese
6. What is your name?
[onamaewa nandeska]
This phrase is used to ask for someone's name.
For example, someone with the name Tanaka Mikiko would reply,
"My name is Tanaka Mikiko."
[tanaka mikikodes]
"How should I address you?"
[nanto yobeba i:deska]
This phrase is used to ask someone's nickname.
For example, someone with the nickname Miki would reply,
"Please call me Miki."
[mikito yonde kudasai]
7. Where are you from?
[shusshinwa dokodeska]
This phrase is used to ask someone where he or she is from.
This phrase is used to learn more about the preferences and opinions of others.
11. I went to 〇〇.
[watashiwa 〇〇ni ikimashita]
This phrase is used to tell someone about the places you have been to visit.
This phrase is suitable for striking up a conversation with your Japanese friends, sharing with them about the different places you have visited in Japan.
By mastering the phrases introduced in this article, you are a step closer to striking a natural conversation with Japanese people. Feel free to put these phrases into practical use and make new friends during your next trip to Japan!
For those already studying, we recommend taking online conversation lessons with CafeTalk (coupon included).
The information presented in this article is based on the time it was written. Note that there may be changes in the merchandise, services, and prices that have occurred after this article was published. Please contact the facility or facilities in this article directly before visiting.
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