How to Say ‘Please’ in Japanese
お願いします
o negai shi masu
[oh neh-guy shee mahs]
🇯🇵 In Japan: [お願いします] is extremely common and flexible in Japan. In a reservation call, it can mean anything from "please" to "that would be great," depending on what came before.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[oh]
honorific prefix
Polite prefix used in fixed expressions like お願いします to sound courteous.
確認のため、お願いしますと一言添えると丁寧です。
For confirmation, adding the phrase 'please' makes it polite.
願い
negai
[neh-guy]
request; favor
Comes from 願い, meaning a request or wish. In お願いします, it means 'please' or 'I request it.'
窓側の席をお願いしますと伝えました。
I said, 'A window seat, please.'
し
shi
[shee]
do (humble/polite stem)
Part of します, the polite form of 'do.' In お願いします, it helps make the request polite.
予約変更をお願いしますと店員さんに言いました。
I told the staff, 'Please change the reservation.'
ます
masu
[mahs]
polite verb ending
Polite ending used in many common expressions, including requests.
席の確認をお願いしますと丁寧に頼みました。
I politely asked, 'Please confirm the seating.'
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