Master all 21 essential Japanese expressions with context, usage, and real-life examples.
21 expressions shown — click to see usage, context, and examples
| Expression | Meaning | When |
|---|---|---|
| どうもありがとうございました | Thank you very much (for what you did) | gratitude |
| いただきます | I humbly receive / Let's eat | food |
| いらっしゃいませ | Welcome! (to a store/restaurant) | service |
| （では）おげんきで | Take care / Please be well | farewell |
| おねがいします | Please (I request) / I ask you | request |
| おはようございます | Good morning (formal) | greeting |
| おやすみなさい | Good night (formal) | greeting |
| ごちそうさまでした | Thank you for the meal / That was delicious | food |
| こちらこそ | The pleasure is mine / No, it is I (who should thank you) | response |
| ごめんください | Excuse me / Is anyone home? | entering |
| ごめんなさい | I'm sorry (sincere apology) | apology |
| こんにちは | Hello / Good afternoon | greeting |
| こんばんは | Good evening | greeting |
| さようなら | Goodbye (more permanent) | farewell |
| しつれいしました | Excuse me (for what I did) / I apologize for being rude (past) | apology |
| しつれいします | Excuse me (for what I'm about to do) | formal |
| すみません | Excuse me / I'm sorry / Thank you | apology |
| では、また | Well then, see you again | farewell |
| （いいえ）どういたしまして | You're welcome / Don't mention it | response |
| はじめまして | Nice to meet you (first meeting only) | greeting |
| （どうぞ）よろしく | Please treat me well / I look forward to working with you | greeting |
21-question quiz — choose the right expression for each situation.