How to Say ‘Preference’ in Japanese
のご希望
no go kibou
[noh goh kee-boh]
💬 Usage Tip: [AのB] can mean "B for A" or "B about A," not just possession. So [お席のご希望] is "your seating preference," not literally "the seat's preference."
Phrase Breakdown
の
no
[noh]
of; for
A particle linking nouns. Here it connects 'seat' and 'preference,' as in 'preference for seating.'
お席のご希望があれば、お早めにお知らせください。
If you have a seating preference, please let us know early.
ご
go
[goh]
honorific prefix
A polite prefix that makes words more respectful. Here it politely refers to the customer's preference.
お席のご希望を伺ってから、ご案内いたします。
After asking about your seating preference, we will guide you.
希望
kibou
[kee-boh]
preference; wish; request
Means what someone wants or prefers. Common when asking about seating, time, or course preferences.
お席のご希望は、禁煙席です。
My seating preference is a non-smoking seat.
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
What 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