Essential Japanese Phrases

SUMI MA SEN 「すみません」

This is one of the most often used words, socially, in Japan and can be used in many situations.

SUMI MA SEN, can mean:

• "Excuse me": to call a waiter when you are ready to order, or simply trying to catch someone's attention
• "Sorry": when apologizing, for something small
• "Thank you": to communicate appreciation

Having this in your Japanese vocabulary will help you tremendously getting through daily tasks and activities.

This is a phrase that asks the question, "How much does this cost?"

While in Japan, you will definitely find yourself either buying food & necessities, or souvenirs for your friends and family back home. You can always get the attention of store staff with SUMI MA SEN, then proceed to point at what you are looking for, perhaps on a menu or an item without a price tag, and say, "IKURA-DESUKA?" They will kindly inform you of the price in Yen (it would be good to brush up on your Japanese numbers as well).

This one is a great one to know for those looking to do a lot of shopping in Japan.

KUDA SAI can be used when asking for something you are wishing to buy or receive.

For example, if you wanted to order Teriyaki Chicken, you would say, “Teriyaki Chicken KUDA SAI”.

You will find yourself using this often at restaurants or generally when asking for items from someone else. This can be used together with the words mentioned above. In a scenario in which you summon a waiter's attention, ask how much something is, and to complete the order by asking for the item.

This phrase can save you from embarrassment. This is an essential phrase when going out, as you will want to find a bathroom, perhaps at a restaurant or a department store. “DO KO DES KA” can also be used to ask where just about anything is. If you are looking for a station (EKI), you would ask "EKI wa DO KO DE SU KA?" 

Japanese is difficult to learn, especially if you work in an English-speaking environment. However, knowing these essential phrases will help you make your time in Japan more stress free.