How to Say ‘Left, right? / So, left?’ in Japanese
左ですね
hidari desu ne
[hee-dah-ree dess neh]
💬 Usage Tip: [〜ですね] is a “confirmation” tone: “So it’s left, right?” Nice for checking you understood.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Confirming like this is considered polite and careful, not annoying—locals do it too when getting directions.
Phrase Breakdown
左
hidari
[hee-dah-ree]
left
Direction word. Here it’s repeated back to confirm instructions (left, right, straight, etc.).
左ですね、分かりました。
Left, right? Got it.
です
desu
[dess]
is; it is (polite)
Copula in polite style. Used to confirm information: 左です = “It’s left.”
左ですね。
So it’s left, right?
ね
ne
[neh]
right?; isn’t it?; (seeking confirmation)
Sentence-ending particle used to confirm or soften statements. In directions, it means “...right?”
左ですね。
Left, right?
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager