How to Say ‘Good morning’ in Japanese
おはようございます
ohayou gozai masu
[oh-ha-yoh goh-zah-ee mahs]
🇯🇵 In Japan: Among friends or family you can drop the ending and just say おはよう. With coworkers or strangers use the full form, and in many workplaces it's the standard greeting at the start of a shift, even in the evening.
Phrase Breakdown
おはよう
ohayou
[oh-ha-yoh]
good morning
A common morning greeting. It is polite and used from early morning until around late morning.
先生におはようと言いました。
I said good morning to the teacher.
ござい
gozai
[goh-zah-ee]
to be; to exist (very polite)
A very polite version of あります, often used by staff in restaurants and hotels.
駐車場がございます。
There is a parking lot.
ます
masu
[mahs]
polite verb ending
A polite ending for verbs in present or non-past form.
空いています、だいじょうぶです。
It is available, so it’s okay.
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 feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
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 made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“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