Japanese people are known for their polite and reserved nature. So, what do they say before eating?
“Itadakimasu” is the most common phrase said before a meal in Japan. It’s equivalent to “I will receive this food” or “Let’s eat.” It shows appreciation for the food that you’re about to enjoy.
Another popular phrase is “gochisousama deshita,” which is said after a meal. It means “thank you for the meal” and is used to show gratitude to the person who prepared the food.
These phrases are just two examples of the many ways that Japanese people show respect for others, even through simple actions like eating a meal. By using such phrases, they create a more harmonious society where everyone feels valued.
“Itadakimasu” – I bow to the food
Japanese people are known for their polite and reserved nature. One example of this is their use of the phrase “Itadakimasu” before meals. This phrase shows respect for the food that is about to be eaten and is a way of thanking those who have provided it.
Itadakimasu is just one example of the many ways in which Japanese people show respect for others. By being polite and reserved, they are able to create a calm and respectful atmosphere in social situations. This helps to maintain harmony in relationships and make interactions more enjoyable for everyone involved.
“Gochisousamae” – Thank you for the meal
There are a few things that Japanese people culture for “Gochisousamae” – Thank you for the meal. One is that everyone cleans their own dishes. There are no dish washers in Japan and it is considered rude to leave your dishes for someone else to clean.
This is because in Japan, it is important to be considerate of others and think of their feelings before your own. Another thing is that food is always served fresh and hot. Meals are typically cooked right before they are eaten so that they can be enjoyed while they are still warm. Lastly, it is considered polite to eat everything on your plate. Leaving food behind is seen as wasteful and rude.
These cultural norms around food reflect the values of Japanese people: diligence, thoughtfulness, and respect.
“Arigatou gozaimasu” – Thank you very much
Arigatou gozaimasu is a phrase that is used often in Japanese culture. It is a way of showing appreciation and gratitude. There are many different ways to say thank you in Japanese, but this phrase is one of the most commonly used.
When it comes to expressing thanks, the Japanese culture is very formal. This phrase is typically used when someone has done something for you that has made your life easier or better in some way. For example, if someone held the door open for you, or if they helped you carry something heavy, you would say arigatou gozaimasu.
This phrase can also be used as a response when someone offers you something. For example, if someone offers you a piece of candy, you would say arigatou gozaimasu in order to show your appreciation.
“Sumimasen” – Excuse me, please
Japanese people are some of the most polite in the world. They are always using phrases like “sumimasen” (excuse me, please) and “arigato” (thank you). Even if they do something wrong, they will apologize profusely. This politeness is just one aspect of the Japanese culture.
The Japanese culture is also very group-oriented. This is evident in their business practices and even in their social lives. People are always working together towards a common goal and they value cooperation over individual achievement. This can be seen as a positive or negative depending on your perspective.
Overall, the Japanese culture is rich and complex. It has been shaped by centuries of history and traditions.
“Neko desu ka” – Is it OK if I eat this?
Neko desu ka is a Japanese phrase that means “Is it OK if I eat this?” This phrase is often used by people who are unsure whether or not they should eat something.
Some people may think that neko desu ka is only used by Japanese people. However, this phrase can be used by anyone who is unsure about whether or not they should eat something. For example, if you are at a friend’s house and you see a plate of food that you are not sure if you should eat, you can ask your friend, “Neko desu ka?”
If you are ever in Japan and you see someone eating something that you are unsure of, do not be afraid to ask them, “Neko desu ka?” It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food.
“Yoroshiku onegaishimasu” – Please treat me kindly
In Japan, it is common to say “yoroshiku onegaishimasu” when meeting someone for the first time. This phrase can be translated to mean “please treat me kindly.” The word “yoroshiku” is derived from the verb “yorosu,” which means “to please.” Therefore, by saying “yoroshiku onegaishimasu,” you are asking the other person to please treat you kindly.
This phrase is used in a variety of situations, such as when starting a new job or meeting someone for the first time. It shows that you are humble and respectful, and that you are looking forward to building a good relationship with the other person.
Saying “yoroshiku onegaishimasu” is a great way to make a good first impression and start off on the right foot.
“Ima ichiban desu ka?” – Am I first today?
In Japan, it is common for people to ask “Ima ichiban desu ka?” when they are about to enter a building or a line. This phrase means “Am I first today?” and is used as a way of politely asking if someone is ahead of you.
Asking this question is considered to be good manners because it shows that you are considerate of others and are willing to let them go ahead of you if they are in a hurry. It is also a way of showing respect for those who are older than you or have more seniority.
If someone asks you “Ima ichiban desu ka?”, it is polite to answer “Hai, ima ichiban desu” (Yes, you are first) even if you were not actually first.
“Eigo de arimasuka?” – Do you speak English?
In Japan, “Eigo de arimasuka?” is the standard way of asking if someone speaks English. While most people in Japan do not speak English fluently, many are able to communicate basic information. This word is useful for travelers who may need assistance from locals.
Although English is not widely spoken in Japan, many people learn it in school and are able to understand basic phrases. If you are traveling to Japan and need assistance, ask someone if they speak English using this phrase. Chances are, they will be able to help you out.
“Dare ka mo nai desu ka?” – Who is that person with you?
Dare ka mo nai desu ka? is a Japanese phrase that literally translates to “Is there anyone with you?” It is often used when someone is surprised to see another person in a place where they didn’t expect them to be.
I was first introduced to this phrase when I was living in Japan. I had just started my job at a local elementary school and was still getting used to the culture and customs. One day, as I was walking to work, I saw one of my students out on the street. He was with his mother and they were heading in the same direction as me.
I said hello and asked him what he was doing out so early in the morning. He told me he had forgotten something at school and had come back to get it.