How to Say ‘Customer’ in Japanese
お客様
o kyaku sama
[oh kyah-ku sah-mah]
💬 Usage Tip: [お客様] is a very respectful word for customer. It includes honorific [お] and respectful [様].
🇯🇵 In Japan: Customer language in Japan is famously polite. [お客様] reflects the strong service culture and respect shown to guests and buyers.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[oh]
honorific prefix
お adds politeness or respect to certain words, especially in customer service language.
お茶のおは丁寧な感じがあります。
The o in ocha gives a polite feeling.
客
kyaku
[kyah-ku]
guest; customer
客 means guest or customer, often in shops, hotels, and service situations.
客が店に入りました。
A customer entered the store.
様
sama
[sah-mah]
honorific suffix; esteemed
様 is a very respectful title added to people, often customers or names in formal settings.
お客様の様はとても丁寧な言い方です。
The sama in okyakusama is a very polite way of speaking.
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