HIRAGANAHUB

Japanese Lesson 18: Say Time and Clock

Say Time and Clock in Japanese

Time is an essential part of everyday conversations. Learning how to ask and tell time in Japanese is a fundamental skill that’s extremely useful, whether for daily interactions or while traveling. This guide will walk you through how to talk about time in Japanese language, complete with sentence patterns, vocabulary, and examples for different scenarios.

1. Basic Sentence Patterns for Asking About Time

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how to say time in Japanese and use it naturally in conversation:

   今何時ですか。 (Ima nan-ji desu ka?)
       Meaning: "What time is it now?"
   何時にですか。 (Nan-ji ni desu ka?)
       Meaning: "At what time?" (Used to ask about the timing of an event or activity.)
   何時に行きますか。 (Nan-ji ni ikimasu ka?)
       Meaning: "What time are we leaving?"

Some key vocabulary related to time:

時間 (Jikan): Time
秒 (Byō): Second
分 (Fun): Minute
時 (Ji): Hour
時計 (Tokei): Clock in Japanese

2. Numbers and Telling the Time

Understanding how to count in Japanese is crucial for discussing time. Below are some basic numbers:

1: 一 (Ichi)
2: 二 (Ni)
3: 三 (San)
4: 四 (Yo or Shi)
5: 五 (Go)
6: 六 (Roku)
7: 七 (Nana or Shichi)
8: 八 (Hachi)
9: 九 (Kyū or Ku)
10: 十 (Jū)

When telling the time, add 時 (Ji) after the number for hours and 分 (Fun) for minutes. Examples:

7:00 = 七時 (Shichi-ji)
7:30 = 七時半 (Shichi-ji han)
7:15 = 七時十五分 (Shichi-ji jū go-fun)

Another useful concept is 前 (Mae), which means "before" or "to" when discussing time. It’s used to indicate how many minutes before the next hour. For instance:

   3:55 = 四時五分前 (Yoji go-fun mae)
       Meaning: Five minutes to four.
   4:56 = 五時四分前 (Goji yon-pun mae)
       Meaning: Four minutes to five.

3. Example Conversations in Different Situations

A. Asking the Current Time

   A: 今何時ですか。 (Ima nan-ji desu ka?)
       (What time is it now?)
   B: 今は午後七時十分です。 (Ima wa gogo shichi-ji jū-fun desu.)
       (It’s 7:10 PM now.)

B. Asking About Train Departure Time

   A: 次の電車は何時に出ますか。 (Tsugi no densha wa nan-ji ni demasu ka?)
       (When does the next train leave?)
   B: 午前十時十分に出ます。 (Gozen jū-ji jū-pun ni demasu.)
       (It leaves at 10:10 AM.)

C. Asking About Event Schedules

     A: ライブショーは何時に始まりますか。 (Raibu shō wa nan-ji ni hajimarimasu ka?)
       (What time does the live show start?)
   B: 午後六時十二分に始まります。 (Gogo roku-ji jū ni-fun ni hajimarimasu.)
       (It starts at 6:12 PM.)

D. Asking for the Time in an Emergency

   A: 誰か時間を知っていますか。 (Dareka jikan o shitteimasu ka?)
       (Does anyone know the time?)
   B: ええ、今は五時半です。 (Ee, ima wa go-ji han desu.)
       (Yes, it’s 5:30 now.)

4. Additional Tips

Use 午前 (Gozen) for AM and 午後 (Gogo) for PM.

To sound polite, add "すみません (Sumimasen)" before asking, e.g.,

すみません、今何時ですか。 (Sumimasen, ima nan-ji desu ka?)
(Excuse me, what’s the time now?)

Be clear when pronouncing numbers to avoid misunderstandings, especially when discussing schedules.

5. Conclusion

Learning how to ask and tell time in Japanese not only helps you manage schedules but also builds a strong foundation for communication. With these patterns and vocabulary, you can confidently engage in conversations. Practice in real-life situations to refine your skills and make your interactions smoother!

Kotoba 2: Time in Japanese

Vocabulary for Telling Time: Hours, Minutes, and Seconds in Japanese

Learning how to express time in Japanese is essential, whether you're studying the language or preparing for a trip. In this guide, we’ll explore how to say hours, minutes, and seconds in Japanese, complete with kanji, romaji, and examples for clarity. Let’s dive in!

Hours (時 - Ji)

To tell the hour, add 時 (ji) after the number. However, some numbers have special readings you should pay attention to.

Examples:

1時 (ichi-ji) = 1 o’clock
2時 (ni-ji) = 2 o’clock
3時 (san-ji) = 3 o’clock
4時 (yo-ji) = 4 o’clock (not yon-ji)
5時 (go-ji) = 5 o’clock
6時 (roku-ji) = 6 o’clock
7時 (shichi-ji) = 7 o’clock (not nana-ji)
8時 (hachi-ji) = 8 o’clock
9時 (ku-ji) = 9 o’clock (not kyuu-ji)
10時 (juu-ji) = 10 o’clock
11時 (juu-ichi-ji) = 11 o’clock
12時 (juu-ni-ji) = 12 o’clock
What time is it? → 何時 (nan-ji)

💡 Tip: Be cautious with the pronunciation of 4, 7, and 9 o’clock, as they differ from the standard readings of these numbers.

AM and PM: 午前 (Gozen) and 午後 (Gogo)

To distinguish between AM and PM, use 午前 (gozen) for morning times (12:00 AM to 11:59 AM) and 午後 (gogo) for afternoon and evening times (12:00 PM to 11:59 PM).

Examples:

午前1時 (gozen ichi-ji) = 1:00 AM
午前10時 (gozen juu-ji) = 10:00 AM
午後1時 (gogo ichi-ji) = 1:00 PM
午後10時 (gogo juu-ji) = 10:00 PM
Minutes (分 - Fun/Pun)

For minutes, use 分 (fun or pun) after the number. The pronunciation depends on the number: some use fun, while others use pun.

Examples:

1分 (ip-pun) = 1 minute
2分 (ni-fun) = 2 minutes
3分 (san-pun) = 3 minutes
4分 (yon-pun) = 4 minutes
5分 (go-fun) = 5 minutes
6分 (rop-pun) = 6 minutes
7分 (nana-fun) = 7 minutes
8分 (hap-pun) = 8 minutes
9分 (kyuu-fun) = 9 minutes
10分 (jup-pun) = 10 minutes
15分 (juu-go-fun) = 15 minutes
20分 (ni-jup-pun) = 20 minutes
30分 (san-jup-pun) = 30 minutes

To ask how many minutes:

何分 (nan-pun) = How many minutes?

💡 Tip: Be mindful of irregular readings like 1, 6, 8, 10, and multiples of 10 (e.g., 20, 30, etc.), as they use pun instead of fun.

Half Past: 半 (Han)

For "half past" the hour, use 半 (han) instead of specifying 30 minutes.

Examples:

10時半 (juu-ji han) = 10:30 (half past ten)
12時半 (juu-ni-ji han) = 12:30 (half past twelve)

Seconds (秒 - Byou)

To count seconds, add 秒 (byou) after the number. The readings are straightforward, but watch for exceptions like 4 and 9.

Examples:

1秒 (ichi-byou) = 1 second
2秒 (ni-byou) = 2 seconds
3秒 (san-byou) = 3 seconds
4秒 (yon-byou) = 4 seconds (not shi-byou)
5秒 (go-byou) = 5 seconds
6秒 (roku-byou) = 6 seconds
7秒 (nana-byou) = 7 seconds (or shichi-byou)
8秒 (hachi-byou) = 8 seconds
9秒 (kyuu-byou) = 9 seconds (not ku-byou)
10秒 (juu-byou) = 10 seconds
What second? → 何秒 (nan-byou)

💡 Tip: Unlike minutes, seconds follow standard readings except for minor adjustments with 4 and 9.

Final Thoughts

Mastering Japanese time expressions—whether hours, minutes, or seconds—is an essential step in improving your language skills. Whether you're asking for the time, scheduling a meeting, or learning how to say "half past ten," this vocabulary will help you communicate effectively and sound natural. Practice using these terms in real-life situations or during your studies to reinforce your learning!

Mini Course 1: How to Say Hello in Japanese

Mastering Japanese Greetings: Saying "Hi" "Hey" "Hello"

japanese course how to say hello in japanese

Knowing how to greet someone is fundamental, especially if you’re planning a trip to Japan or chatting with Japanese friends. Japanese has various ways to say "hi" or "hello," tailored to the time, setting, and level of formality. Let’s explore the key greetings and when to use them effectively.

1. Ohayou Gozaimasu (おはようございます)

Meaning: Good morning

This phrase is the classic morning greeting in Japanese, typically used before mid-morning. Use the polite version, ohayou gozaimasu, in formal settings, while the casual ohayou is more suited to informal interactions.

Examples:

おはようございます、田中さん。 (Ohayou gozaimasu, Tanaka-san.)

Translation: Good morning, Mr. Tanaka.

おはよう、友達！ (Ohayou, tomodachi!)

Translation: Morning, friend!

Opt for ohayou gozaimasu when addressing superiors or acquaintances and ohayou when greeting close friends or family.

2. Konnichiwa (こんにちは)

Meaning: Hi or Good Afternoon

Konnichiwa is a flexible and universally recognized Japanese greeting. It’s ideal for use during daytime hours, typically from late morning until the evening. Its neutrality makes it suitable for both casual chats and formal conversations.

Examples:

こんにちは、元気ですか？ (Konnichiwa, genki desu ka?)

Meaning: Hi, how are you?

こんにちは、駅はどこですか？ (Konnichiwa, eki wa doko desu ka?)

Meaning: Hi, where’s the train station?

If you're unsure of the right greeting, konnichiwa is a reliable option for most scenarios.

3. Konbanwa (こんばんは)

Translation: Good evening

Once the evening begins, "konbanwa" becomes the go-to greeting. It’s a polite and slightly formal phrase, ideal for professional settings or introductions after sunset.

Examples:

こんばんは、今日は楽しかったですか？ (Konbanwa, kyō wa tanoshikatta desu ka?)

Translation: Good evening, did you have a good day?

こんばんは、次の電車は何時に出発しますか？ (Konbanwa, tsugi no densha wa nanji ni shuppatsu shimasu ka?)

Translation: Good evening, what time does the next train depart?

Reserve "konbanwa" for evening occasions, especially when speaking to someone respectfully or in a new encounter.

4. Moshi Moshi (もしもし)

Meaning: Hello (used during phone calls)

When you answer or initiate a call in Japanese, the phrase "moshi moshi" is your go-to greeting. It’s exclusively reserved for telephone conversations and never used in person.

Examples:

もしもし、佐藤です。(Moshi moshi, Satou desu.)

Translation: Hello, this is Satou.

もしもし、私の声が聞こえますか？ (Moshi moshi, watashi no koe ga kikoemasu ka?)

Translation: Hello, can you hear my voice?

Whether you’re calling a friend or speaking in a formal setting, "moshi moshi" is an essential expression that works perfectly in any phone context.

5. Yahhoo (やっほー) and Yo (よう)

Meaning: Hey (very informal)

Yahhoo and yo are casual greetings often used between close friends or within a younger crowd. Their cheerful and easygoing nature makes them perfect for a relaxed atmosphere but completely out of place in formal or professional environments.

Examples:

やっほー、どうしてた？ (Yahhoo, doushiteta?)

Meaning: Hey, what’ve you been up to?

よう、何か面白いことある？ (Yo, nani ka omoshiroi koto aru?)

Meaning: Yo, anything interesting happening?

Stick with these greetings when chatting with peers or friends—they’re too casual for serious or formal conversations.

6. Ossu (おっす)

Definition: Hi (informal, commonly used among men)

This casual greeting is frequently used in sports or by male friends in relaxed settings. Due to its informal nature, ossu isn’t suitable for professional or formal conversations.

Examples:

おっす、準備は整った？(Ossu, junbi wa totonotta?)

Meaning: Hey, are you all set?

おっす、最近どう？ (Ossu, saikin dou?)

Meaning: Hey, how’s it been?

Keep ossu for casual chats with close acquaintances or in environments where informality is the norm.

7. Doumo (どうも)

Translation: Hi or Hello (informal and adaptable)

Doumo is a versatile greeting often used in informal conversations. Beyond saying “hi,” it can sometimes express politeness or appreciation depending on the situation, making it an ideal phrase for easygoing interactions.

Examples:

どうも、久しぶり！ (Doumo, hisashiburi!)

Translation: Hey, it’s been ages!

どうも、お邪魔します。(Doumo, o-jama shimasu.)

Translation: Hello, excuse me for coming in.

Doumo has a casual tone, but its friendly nature makes it perfect for lighthearted, everyday exchanges.

Conclusion

The Japanese language provides an array of greetings, from formal ones like ohayou gozaimasu to casual phrases like yahhoo or ossu. Knowing when to use each greeting not only helps you communicate effectively but also shows respect for Japanese traditions. Whether you’re starting your day with ohayou or answering a call with moshi moshi, you’ll be prepared to greet with confidence. Keep practicing, and enjoy your journey into the Japanese language!

Japanese for Travel 1: Learn Basic Phrase When Trip to Japan

Japanese for Traveling: Essential Basic Phrases for Your Trip to Japan

Planning a trip to Japan? Learning a few basic Japanese phrases is a smart way to make your journey smoother. While Japan is a highly developed country, not everyone speaks English fluently. By learning these essential expressions, you can communicate better and show respect for the local culture. Here are the must-know phrases for your travels in Japan.

1. Greetings in Japanese

Greetings are a great way to start a conversation and show politeness. In Japanese, greetings vary depending on the time of day and the situation:

Ohayou Gozaimasu (おはようございます)
- Romaji: Ohayou gozaimasu
- Meaning: Good morning
  This phrase is used in the morning, particularly in formal situations. You can simply say "Ohayou" in informal settings, like when talking to friends.
Example Sentences:
1. おはようございます、先生。 (Ohayou gozaimasu, sensei.)
  Meaning: Good morning, Teacher.
2. おはよう、タロウ。 (Ohayou, Tarou.)
  Meaning: Morning, Tarou.

Konnichiwa (こんにちは)
- Romaji: Konnichiwa
- Meaning: Good afternoon
  Use this when greeting someone in the afternoon, typically from 11:00 AM to late afternoon.
Example Sentences:
1. こんにちは、お兄さん。 (Konnichiwa, oniisan.)
  Meaning: Good afternoon, Big Brother.
2. こんにちは、今日もいい天気ですね。 (Konnichiwa, kyou mo ii tenki desu ne.)
  Meaning: Good afternoon, it’s nice weather today, isn’t it?

Konbanwa (こんばんは)
- Romaji: Konbanwa
- Meaning: Good evening
  This is appropriate for greeting someone in the evening.
Example Sentences:
1. こんばんは、学生のみなさん。 (Konbanwa, gakusei no minasan.)
  Meaning: Good evening, everyone.
2. こんばんは、次の集まりはいつですか？ (Konbanwa, tsugi no atsumari wa itsu desu ka?)
  Meaning: Good evening, when is the next meeting?

2. Saying Thank You: Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます)

This phrase is a polite way to express gratitude. Use it after receiving help, goods, or information. For informal settings, "Arigatou" is sufficient.

Example Sentences:

ありがとうございます。 (Arigatou gozaimasu.)
Meaning: Thank you very much.
ありがとう、サユリ。 (Arigatou, Sayuri.)
Meaning: Thanks, Sayuri.

3. Excuse Me or Sorry: Sumimasen (すみません)

This versatile phrase can be used to apologize, get someone's attention, or start a question politely.

Example Sentences:

すみません、この駅はどこですか？ (Sumimasen, kono eki wa doko desu ka?)
Meaning: Excuse me, where is this station?
すみません、小銭はありません。 (Sumimasen, kosen wa arimasen.)
Meaning: Sorry, I don’t have any small change.

4. Responding with "Yes" or "No": Hai (はい) and Iie (いいえ)

Use "Hai" for affirmative answers and "Iie" for polite rejections. Adding a nod or shake of the head can emphasize your intention.

Example Sentences:

はい、わかりました。 (Hai, wakarimashita.)
Meaning: Yes, I understand.
いいえ、それは違います。 (Iie, sore wa chigaimasu.)
Meaning: No, that’s not correct.

5. Polite Requests: Onegaishimasu (おねがいします)

"Onegaishimasu" is a formal way to say "please" or "I request." This phrase is often used when asking for something politely, like ordering food or requesting assistance.

Example Sentences:

すみません、このテーブルを清掃してください。おねがいします。(Sumimasen, kono teeburu o souji shite kudasai. Onegaishimasu.)
Meaning: Excuse me, please clean this table.
メニューをみせてください。おねがいします。(Menyuu o misete kudasai. Onegaishimasu.)
Meaning: Please show me the menu.

By mastering these phrases, your trip to Japan will be more comfortable and enjoyable. Don’t hesitate to practice your pronunciation to build confidence when interacting with locals!

Japanese Lesson 17: Demonstrative Words in Japanese (これ, それ, あれ, etc.)

Demonstrative Words in Japanese: Understanding KO-SO-A-DO Kotoba

In everyday Japanese conversations, demonstratives are frequently used to point to objects, places, or specific individuals. These words are collectively known as KO-SO-A-DO kotoba (こそあど言葉). This article will provide a structured and comprehensive guide to using these demonstratives, complete with example sentences and the contexts in which they are used.

What is KO-SO-A-DO Kotoba?

KO-SO-A-DO kotoba refers to a group of demonstrative words in Japanese, categorized based on their proximity to the speaker, listener, or for asking about something. These words are divided into four main groups:

KO (こ): Refers to something close to the speaker ("this").
SO (そ): Refers to something close to the listener ("that").
A (あ): Refers to something far from both the speaker and the listener ("that over there").
DO (ど): Used to ask questions ("which").

Let’s explore these groups in more detail.

Demonstratives for Objects

The KO-SO-A-DO words for objects are:

Kore (これ): This
Sore (それ): That
Are (あれ): That over there (far)
Dore (どれ): Which one

Example Sentences:

これはなんですか？
Kore wa nan desu ka?
What is this?
それはあなたのハンカチですか？
Sore wa anata no hankachi desu ka?
Is that your handkerchief?
あれはお寺ですか？
Are wa otera desu ka?
Is that a temple over there?
あなたの傘はどれですか？
Anata no kasa wa dore desu ka?
Which one is your umbrella?

To refer to multiple objects, add the suffix ra (ら) to indicate the plural form.

Plural Example Sentences:

それらは田中さんの車ですか？
Sorera wa Tanaka-san no kuruma desu ka?
Are those all Tanaka’s cars?
これらは並みちゃんの寿司です。
Korera wa Nami-chan no sushi desu.
These are all Nami’s sushi.

Demonstratives Followed by Nouns

When KO-SO-A-DO words are followed by nouns, they take the form no (の), becoming kono, sono, ano, and dono.

Example Sentences:

この本が好きです。
Kono hon ga suki desu.
I like this book.
そのペンを貸してください。
Sono pen o kashite kudasai.
Please lend me that pen.
あの人は俳優です。
Ano hito wa haiyū desu.
That person is an actor.
どのボールペンがあなたのですか？
Dono bōrupen ga anata no desu ka?
Which ballpoint pen is yours?

Demonstratives for Places

To point to places, KO-SO-A-DO words use the suffix ko (こ):

Koko (ここ): Here
Soko (そこ): There
Asoko (あそこ): Over there
Doko (どこ): Where

Japanese sentence structure:

ここ/そこ/あそこ + は + ばしょ (place) + です
(“This/that/over there is [place].”)

For negative sentences, you can use ではありません (dewa arimasen) or じゃありません (jaarimasen).

Example Sentences: Positive

ここは晴れていますね。
Koko wa harete imasu ne.
It’s clear here, isn’t it?
そこは曇っていますか？
Soko wa kumotte imasu ka?
Is it cloudy there?
あそこは公園です。
Asoko wa kōen desu.
Over there is a park.
あなたはどこに住んでいますか？
Anata wa doko ni sunde imasu ka?
Where do you live?

Example Sentences: Negative

ここはがっこうではありません。
Koko wa gakkō dewa arimasen.
Here is not a school.
そこはとしょかんじゃありません。
Soko wa toshokan jaarimasen.
There is not a library.
あそこはびょういんではありません。
Asoko wa byōin dewa arimasen.
Over there is not a hospital.

Demonstratives for People or Directions

Using the suffix chira (ちら), KO-SO-A-DO words can politely refer to people or directions.

Kochira (こちら): Here / This / This person
Sochira (そちら): There / That / That person
Achira (あちら): Over there / That over there / That person over there
Dochira (どちら): Where / Which one / Who (polite)

Example Sentences:

こちらがヒロシさんですか？
Kochira ga Hiroshi-san desu ka?
Is this Mr. Hiroshi?
そちらは奥さんですか？
Sochira wa okusama desu ka?
Is that your wife?
あちらはきれいな空です。
Achira wa kirei na sora desu.
That is the beautiful sky over there.
どちらが好きですか？
Dochira ga suki desu ka?
Which one do you like?

Social Contexts for Using KO-SO-A-DO

Formality: Words like kochira, sochira, achira, and dochira are more formal compared to koko, soko, asoko, and doko. Use them in formal situations or when speaking respectfully.
Children to Adults: Children typically use simpler forms like kore, sore, are.
Gender: There’s no gender difference in using KO-SO-A-DO words, but politeness levels adjust according to the situation.

Conclusion

KO-SO-A-DO kotoba plays a vital role in everyday communication in Japanese. Understanding how to use these demonstratives will help you express yourself more effectively in various contexts. Practice using these words in daily conversations to improve your Japanese language skills!

Japanese Lesson 16: Greetings and Expressions in Japanese

Greetings and Everyday Expressions in Japanese

The Japanese language is rich with expressions that reflect the culture and social norms of its people. In daily life, the use of greetings and specific expressions is essential as it demonstrates politeness, respect, and the relationship between speakers. This article will discuss various greetings and common expressions in Japanese, complete with their context of use.

1. Basic Greetings for Different Times of Day

おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu)
- Meaning: Good morning
- Usage: Used in the morning until 10:00, used when speaking to older people, to superiors, and in other formal situations.
- Informal version: For casual situations between family or friends, simply say おはよう (Ohayou).
こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
- Meaning: Hello or good afternoon
- Usage: A general greeting that can be used throughout the afternoon until evening. It does not have an informal version, making it suitable for various situations.
こんばんは (Konbanwa)
- Meaning: Good evening
- Usage: Used in formal or casual situations, when meeting at night.
おやすみなさい (Oyasuminasai)
- Meaning: Good night
- Usage: Used before going to bed or when saying goodbye at night. The informal version is おやすみ (Oyasumi).

2. Farewells and Parting Phrases

さようなら (Sayounara)
- Meaning: Goodbye
- Usage: This phrase is used for long-term or formal goodbyes. It is rarely used in daily life for short-term partings.
またね / じゃね (Mata ne / Ja ne)
- Meaning: See you later
- Usage: These are casual expressions often used among close friends.
ではまた / じゃまたあいましょう (Dewa mata / Ja mata aimashou)
- Meaning: See you again
- Usage: More formal than "Mata ne," making it suitable for polite situations.

3. Requests and Polite Expressions

お願いします (Onegaishimasu)

Meaning: Please

Usage: This phrase is a polite way to request assistance. It’s widely used in professional settings, formal conversations, or when asking for help respectfully.

すみません (Sumimasen)

Meaning: Excuse me or I’m sorry

Usage: A versatile phrase, "Sumimasen" can be used to politely get someone’s attention, offer a mild apology, or even express gratitude indirectly in a humble manner.

ごめんなさい (Gomennasai)

Meaning: Sorry

Usage: This is a less formal way to apologize, commonly used in casual situations among friends, family, or close acquaintances.

申し訳ございません (Moushiwake gozaimasen)

Meaning: I deeply apologize

Usage: This phrase conveys a very formal and sincere apology. It’s most appropriate in professional settings or highly formal occasions where a deep level of regret needs to be expressed.

4. Expressions of Gratitude

ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)
- Meaning: Thank you very much
- Usage: A polite expression suitable for anyone.
どういたしまして (Douitashimashite)
- Meaning: You’re welcome
- Usage: Used as a response to "Arigatou gozaimasu."

5. Frequently Asked Questions and Common Responses

お元気ですか / おいかがですか (Ogenki desu ka / Oikaga desu ka)

Meaning: How are you?

Usage: This is a polite way to inquire about someone’s well-being. It’s often used in formal or respectful conversations, showing genuine concern for the other person.

おかげさまで (Okage sama de)

Meaning: Thanks to you

Usage: This phrase is a courteous reply to “Ogenki desu ka,” indicating that you are doing well and acknowledging the goodwill of the other person.

お久しぶりですね (Hisashiburi desu ne)

Meaning: It’s been a while

Usage: A phrase to express delight or surprise when reconnecting with someone after an extended period of time. It conveys warmth and familiarity.

6. Special Expressions

いらっしゃいませ (Irasshaimase)
- Meaning: Welcome (formal)
- Usage: Typically used by staff in stores or restaurants to welcome customers.
お疲れさまでした (Otsukaresama deshita)
- Meaning: Thank you for your hard work
- Usage: Commonly used in workplaces to show appreciation.
ご苦労様でした (Gokurousama deshita)
- Meaning: Thank you for your hard work
- Usage: Usually said by superiors to subordinates.
お先に（失礼します）(Osaki ni shitsurei shimasu)
- Meaning: I’m leaving first
- Usage: Often used in workplaces when leaving earlier. It is usually responded to with "お疲れさまでした (Otsukaresama deshita)."
ちょっと待ってください (Chotto matte kudasai)
- Meaning: Please wait a moment
- Usage: This phrase is a polite way to request someone to wait and can be used appropriately in both casual and formal settings.
いい天気ですね (Ii tenki desu ne)
- Meaning: The weather is nice, isn’t it?
- Usage: Used to start small talk, especially in casual situations.
ああ、そうですね (Aa, sou desu ne)
- Meaning: Ah, yes, that’s right
- Usage: A common response in casual conversations to show agreement or confirmation.

The Japanese language offers a wide range of greetings and expressions, each deeply rooted in the values of respect and courtesy. Gaining an understanding of their context allows you to communicate more effectively while demonstrating a genuine appreciation for Japanese culture.

Kotoba 1: 家族 - Kazoku (Family)

Vocabulary List About Family (Japanese)

This week's vocabulary list is themed around Family, and we have arranged it completely for your memorization and practice.

This list is categorized to show the difference between referring to your own family members and others' family members. Below the table, I’ve also included example sentences using these words.

Family Word	Kanji	Hiragana	Romaji	Meaning
Own Parents	両親	りょうしん	ryoushin	Parents (your own)
Parents (Others)	ご両親	ごりょうしん	goryoushin	Parents (someone else’s)
Own Father	父	ちち	chichi	Father (your own)
Father (Others)	お父さん	おとうさん	otousan	Father (someone else's)
Own Mother	母	はは	haha	Mother (your own)
Mother (Others)	お母さん	おかあさん	okaasan	Mother (someone else's)
Own Older Brother	兄	あに	ani	Older brother (your own)
Older Brother (Others)	ご兄弟	ごきょうだい	gokyoudai	Older brother (someone else’s)
Own Older Sister	姉	あね	ane	Older sister (your own)
Older Sister (Others)	ご姉妹	ごしまい	go-shimai	Older sister (someone else’s)
Own Younger Brother	弟	おとうと	otouto	Younger brother (your own)
Younger Brother (Others)	弟さん	おとうとさん	otoutosan	Younger brother (someone else’s)
Own Younger Sister	妹	いもうと	imouto	Younger sister (your own)
Younger Sister (Others)	妹さん	いもうとさん	imoutosan	Younger sister (someone else’s)
Own Husband	夫	おっと	otto	Husband (your own)
Husband (Others)	ご主人	ごしゅじん	goshujin	Husband (someone else’s)
Own Wife	妻	つま	tsuma	Wife (your own)
Wife (Others)	奥さん	おくさん	okusan	Wife (someone else’s)
Own Child	子供	こども	kodomo	Child (your own)
Child (Others)	お子さん	おこさん	okosan	Child (someone else’s)

Example Sentences:

Own Family:

Own Father: 私の父は会社員です。 (Watashi no chichi wa kaishain desu.)
Translation: My father is a company employee.
Own Mother: 私の母は料理が得意です。 (Watashi no haha wa ryouri ga tokui desu.)
Translation: My mother is good at cooking.
Own Older Brother: 兄は医者です。 (Ani wa isha desu.)
Translation: My older brother is a doctor.

Other People’s Family:

Father (Others): お父さんはどんな仕事をしていますか？ (Otousan wa donna shigoto wo shiteimasu ka?)
Translation: What kind of work does your father do?
Mother (Others): お母さんは元気ですか？ (Okaasan wa genki desu ka?)
Translation: Is your mother well?
Older Brother (Others): ご兄弟は何人いますか？ (Gokyoudai wa nannin imasu ka?)
Translation: How many brothers do you have?

I hope this helps! Let me know if you need further explanations or more examples.