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How to Say ‘Please / Sure’ in Japanese

お願いします

o negai shi masu

[oh neh-gah-ee shee mahs]

🇯🇵 In Japan: [お願いします] is the standard polite response when someone is about to help you or proceed with something. In a clinic it sounds natural and cooperative, like "yes, please go ahead."

Phrase Breakdown

o

[oh]

honorific prefix

A polite prefix that makes the expression more courteous.

Example

お名前をお願いします。

Your name, please.

願い

negai

[neh-gah-ee]

wish; request

From 願い, meaning wish or request. In お願いします it helps form 'please'.

Example

お願いがあります。

I have a request.

shi

[shee]

do

Part of the verb します in the polite request expression お願いします.

Example

よろしくお願いします。

Please treat me favorably.

ます

masu

[mahs]

polite verb ending

Polite ending in expressions like お願いします.

Example

確認をお願いします。

Please check it.

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