⬅️🙏

How to Say ‘Please turn left.’ in Japanese

左に曲がってください。

hidari ni magatsu te kudasai

[hee-DAH-ree ni mah-GAHT te kudasai]

🇯🇵 In Japan: Cars drive on the left in Japan, so left turns are the quick, easy ones. Right turns cross traffic.

Phrase Breakdown

左に

hidari ni

to the left

左 (hidari) means 'left'. The particle に (ni) marks the direction. Pronounce it 'hi-da-ri-ni', keeping the 'r' light, like a quick tap.

Example

左に銀行があります。

There is a bank on the left.

Words in this phrase

左

hidari

[hee-DAH-ree]

left

The direction left.

Example

信号を左です。

It's left at the traffic light.

に

[ni]

Used to indicate direction or point of action.

Example

学校に行きます。

I go to school.

曲がってください。

magatsu te kudasai

please turn

This is the polite request form of 曲がる (magaru, 'to turn'). Hold the small っ as a brief pause: 'ma-gat-te ku-da-sai'.

Example

信号で曲がってください。

Please turn at the traffic light.

Words in this phrase

曲がっ

magatsu

[mah-GAHT]

turn

Te-form stem of magaru, 'to turn (a corner)'.

Example

信号で曲がってください。

Please turn at the traffic light.

て

[te]

and; please do

The て-form ending that connects a verb to the next part, often for requests.

Example

イベントの後で少し話してください。

Please talk with me a little after the event.

ください

kudasai

[kudasai]

please (do)

Used to make a polite request.

Example

手伝ってください。

Please help me.

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 feedback on what you say out loud

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Lessons for Your Situation

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Get Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”

Mia S., 25, English Teacher

“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”

James O., 28, Remote Worker

“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