Lesson 1ようこそ、むさしトレーディングへ！ Welcome to Musashi Trading

Learn basic phrases!

Learn the expressions used in the video.

1. すみません　sumimasen ［Excuse me.（attention call）］

This phrase is used most often by Japanese people. It is used when getting attention from those one does not know or from those that are superior in position and status. The phrase “すいません” is also often used.

2. はじめまして hajimemashite ［Nice to meet you.］

This is a greeting used when meeting someone for the first time, before self introduction.

In Japanese, it is not used as a greeting once a self introduction is made. In English it is similar to “hello” or nice to meet you“. Also, there is no custom of kissing, hugging or shaking hands in Japan. It is much more polite saying while bowing. Even when in a frank position, you can use a light nod to make a Japanese-like greeting.

3. ありがとうございます arigatogozaimasu ［Thank you.］

It is an expression of appreciation and gratitude. It can also be used casually to say “thank you”.

4. ごめんなさい gomennasai ［Sorry.］

It is an expression of apology. ”ごめん” by itself is also used casually to say “I’m sorry”.

5. おねがいします onegaishimasu ［Please.］

This is also a commonly used to express a request. “おねがい” is also casually used to say ”please.”

6. すみません sumimasen ［Excuse me.（apology, thnaks）］

“すみません” as used earlier, is also used when calling out to someone to get their attention.

Here, it is used as a simple token of appreciation. However, if you really want to express your appreciation, it is probably best to say “ありがとうございます” (thank you). For a minor situational problem, it is used as a simple “I am sorry.”

7. おいしい！oishi ［Delicious.］

It means delicious. In the video Jocelyn says to herself “おいしい“. However, when you want to convey that to someone, say “おいしいです”, adding “です”.

8. ただいま！tadaima ［I am home. I am back.］

This word is used as a greeting when you return from the outside to your home or office where you work at. People who do not reside at the house or workplace do not use it.

9. おかえりなさい okaerinasai ［Welcome back.］

It is a word to greet familiar people who have returned home or to the office from outside.. If it was a family member, a member of a shared house or a friend of yours, a casual “おかえり” is fine.

10. おつかれさまです otsukaresamadesu ［Good work. Thank you for your hard work.］

This is a unique Japanese expression. It is a word of encouragement to those who have finished their work. It also means goodbye at work and is often used between workers when going home. “おつかれさまでした” is also used. In addition, “おつかれ” can be used casually. “おつかれさまでした” is also used. You can say “おつかれ” in a casual form.

11. こんにちは konnichiwa ［Hello］

It a greeting to say “Good afternoon.” The exact time is not fixed, but it is usually used around 11:00 am to 12:00 noon to about 17:00 pm to 18:00 pm. It is a typical Japanese greeting of recognition when casually meeting with someone for the first time or persons of superior position and status.