#036: Top Seven Phrases to Sound Like a Local

Japan Fan Post #036

It's always great to read up on a few phrases before going to Japan. Here are the most useful ones!

すごい

sugoi

soo-goi

This expression is used to exclaim that something is great or amazing. This isn't used for edibles, and I haven't heard it used sarcastically either.

Example:

"Are you coming to the party tonight?"

"Yes!"

"Great!"

ちょっと 待って ください

chotto matte, kudasai

(choh-toh mah-tay, koo-dah-sai)

This translates as "wait a moment, please" and can be used nicely or if someone is annoying you.

Example:

"Are you ready to order?"

"Um... one moment, please."

"Okay."

よろしく お願い します

yoroshiku onegai shimas

(yoh-roh-shku oh-neh-gai shee-mahss)

This is extremely useful if you are lost. Just say this and someone will help you. There is no good English translation, but it translates directly to "please do your best and treat me well."

Example:

"Can you help me? I'm lost."

*a dozen Japanese people run over*

ホント に, 美味し です よ

honto ni, oishi des yo

(hohn-to nee, oh-ee-shee dehss yoh)

While you could just say "oishi" if something tastes great, it's better to say this if you are dining with Japanese people. They will appreciate it if you drop a "honto ni." This translates as "really, it's delicious" or "for real, it's delicious."

Example:

*gulps noodles*

"Wow, you seem like you like those."

Really, they're delicious!"

うそ

u-so

(oo-soh)

This is a great expression of surprise to use around Japanese people. It translates as "you're kidding" or "really?"

"We're going to Japan!"

"You're kidding!"

もちろん です

mochiron des

(mo-shee-rohn dehss)

This is almost like saying "you're welcome," but a bit different. You would say "mochiron des" after you hold the door open for someone or give your seat up on the train or bus. This phrase means "of course" or "certainly."

Example:

*old lady gets on subway train*

"Here, have my seat."

"Thank you!"

"Of course."

ダイジョブ

daijyo bu

(dai-joh boo)

If someone makes a mistake or forgets to bring your food, chances are that they will make a big deal about it. If that is the case, reply with daijyo bu. It translates as "it's alright" or "it's okay."

Example:

"Do you know where a pharmacy is?"

"No, sorry. I just moved here."

"Oh. It's alright."