How to Say ‘Please’ in Japanese
お願い。
o negai
[oh oh-neh-guy]
💬 Usage Tip: [お願い。] is a short, casual “please” meaning “I’m counting on you.” Polite versions: [お願いします] / [お願いできますか].
🇯🇵 In Japan: You’ll hear [お願いしまーす] often at work or clubs as a friendly “Let’s do this / Thanks in advance,” not just a direct request.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[oh]
(honorific prefix) o-
Polite prefix added to certain words to sound more courteous (e.g., お名前, お願い). In お願い, it makes the request more polite.
おお願いがあります。
I have a request.
願い
negai
[oh-neh-guy]
request; favor; wish (as in 'please')
Noun meaning 'request/favor.' Often used as お願い(します) to mean 'please' (asking someone to do something).
お願い、もう一回言ってください。
Please, say it one more time.
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