Top 10 Must-Know Japanese Phrases for Beginners

The Japanese language, known as Nihongo (日本語), is the official language of Japan and is spoken by approximately 123 million people worldwide. It is a member of the Japonic language family, which also includes the Ryukyuan languages spoken in Okinawa and surrounding islands.If you’re just starting out with Japanese, learning a few key phrases can make a huge difference. Whether you’re traveling, visiting new people, or simply trying to impress someone, these important Japanese phrases for beginners can help you get started. There’s no need to concentrate about exact grammar; instead, focus on getting the words out naturally.

Japanese Phrases for Beginners

1. こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello

One of the first words you’ll hear in Japan is “Konnichiwa” is a simple way to say hello, mostly used in the afternoon. In the morning, you’d say おはよう (Ohayou) and in the evening, it’s こんばんは (Konbanwa).

2. ありがとう (Arigatou) – Thank you

A little politeness goes a long way. If you wanna be extra polite, you can say ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu). For casual settings, just “Arigatou” also works good.

3. すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / Sorry

This is super useful. You can use “Sumimasen” to get someone’s attention, like calling a waiter or to apologize when bumping into someone. It’s kinda like “excuse me” and “sorry” combined.

4. お願いします (Onegaishimasu) – Please

You’ll use this a lot. It’s a polite way to ask for something, like when ordering food or making requests. For casual situations, you can say ください (Kudasai) instead.

5. わかりません (Wakarimasen) – I don’t understand

This is a lifesaver when you’re lost in a conversation.If you don’t understand Japanese then you can say this. 日本語がわかりません (Nihongo ga wakarimasen) – “I don’t understand Japanese.”

6. 英語を話せますか？(Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) – Can you speak English?

If you’re struggling with Japanese, this phrase can be a game-changer. Not everyone speaks English, but many will try to help you if you ask politely to them.

7. いくらですか？(Ikura desu ka?) – How much is this?

Super useful when shopping. If you’re looking at something in a store and want to know the price, just point and say “Ikura desu ka?”

8. どこですか？(Doko desu ka?) – Where is it?

Lost? No worries! Just say the place you’re looking for + “Doko desu ka?” Example: トイレはどこですか？(Toire wa doko desu ka?) – “Where is the toilet?”

9. 大丈夫です (Daijoubu desu) – It’s okay / I’m fine

A super handy phrase. You can use “Daijoubu desu” to decline something politely, like if someone offers you food and you’re full, or to say you’re okay after a small accident.

10. たすけて！(Tasukete!) – Help!

Hopefully, you never need this, but it’s important to know. If you’re in trouble or need urgent help then say Tasukete! or 助けてください (Tasukete kudasai) for extra politeness.

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Wrapping Up

Learning these essential Japanese phrases for beginners will make your life a lot easier. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect—Japanese people appreciate the effort. Just keep practicing, and you’ll get better over time.