How to Say ‘Are you here by yourself?’ in Japanese
お一人ですか？
o hitori desu ka
[o hee-toh-ree dess kah]
🇯🇵 In Japan: Staff ask this at the door to seat you. From another customer it's a gentle opener that lets you check whether someone's free to chat without being pushy.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[o]
polite prefix
A prefix added to words to show respect.
お邪魔します、おじゃまします。
Excuse me for disturbing.
一人
hitori
[hee-toh-ree]
one person
Refers to one person in a group. Useful when explaining one guest's dietary restriction.
一人は魚が食べられません。
One person cannot eat fish.
です
desu
[dess]
is; polite copula
A polite sentence ending used in formal conversation.
少し伺いたいです。
I would like to ask a little.
か
ka
[kah]
question particle
Turns a sentence into a question. In polite speech, か is standard for asking questions in interviews.
日本語は勉強していますか。
Are you studying Japanese?
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