How to Say ‘Looking forward to’ in Japanese
お待ちして
o machi shi te
[o machi shi te]
💬 Usage Tip: The expression [お待ちして] (o-machi shite) can be paired with other verbs to express anticipation.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Patient waiting and anticipation are subtly different in Japan. This phrase captures the nuance with politeness.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[o]
honorific prefix
Used to add politeness to verbs; often attached to verbs and nouns.
お待ちしていました！
I was waiting for you!
待ち
machi
[machi]
to wait
Expresses waiting for someone or something politely.
レストランでお待ちしています。
We are waiting at the restaurant.
して
shi te
Doing (te-form)
Te-form of a verb indicates a continuous action or a request.
話して ください。
Please talk.
Words in this phrase
し
shi
[shi]
to do
A verb suffix indicating ongoing actions.
お茶をしながらお待ちしています。
I am waiting while having tea.
て
te
[te]
and/then
Used to connect clauses or phrases in a sentence.
お待ちして、すぐに入れます。
Wait, and you can enter soon.
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