How to Say ‘If possible’ in Japanese
できれば
dekire ba
[deh-kee-reh bah]
💬 Usage Tip: [できれば] means "if possible" and is a handy softener before a request. It makes you sound flexible rather than demanding: [できれば、窓側でお願いします].
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is very useful in Japan when asking for accommodations. It shows you're making a preference known without acting as if the staff must say yes.
Phrase Breakdown
できれ
dekire
[deh-kee-reh]
if possible
A polite expression used to soften a request and mean 'if possible' or 'if you can.'
できれば、窓側の席をお願いします。
If possible, I'd like a window seat.
ば
ba
[bah]
if
This conditional ending completes the meaning of 'if' in the expression できれば.
できれば、早めの時間で予約したいです。
If possible, I'd like to reserve an earlier time.
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