How to Say ‘Please’ in Japanese
お願いします
o negai shi masu
[oh neh-guy shee mahs]
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is the standard polite [please] for shops, counters, and service situations. In Japan, saying [お願いします] after what you want sounds more natural than a direct command or a bare [please].
Phrase Breakdown
お願い
o negai
favor; request
A noun meaning a favor or request; in this phrase it is used with します to make a polite request.
お願い、写真を撮ってください。
Please take a photo for me.
Words in this phrase
お
o
[oh]
honorific prefix used in polite expressions
The polite prefix お softens the expression and makes it more courteous.
おお願いします。
Please.
願い
negai
[neh-guy]
request; favor
願い is the request part inside お願いします.
願いします。
Please do.
し
shi
[shee]
do
し is the stem of する, meaning to do.
予約しします。
I do the reservation.
ます
masu
[mahs]
polite present/future ending
ます makes a verb polite in present or future statements.
予約します。
I will make a reservation.
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