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How to Say ‘Please (polite request)’ in Japanese

ください

kudasai

[koo-dah-sigh]

💬 Usage Tip: Attach [ください] to the て-form for polite requests: [待ってください]. It’s direct but still polite; softer options include [いただけますか].

🇯🇵 In Japan: With neighbors, [〜てください] is okay, but adding a cushion like [すみませんが] before it often sounds more considerate.

Phrase Breakdown

ください

kudasai

[koo-dah-sigh]

please (polite request)

Polite request word used after て-form verbs: 〜てください = “please do ….” Softer than commands, good with neighbors.

Example

9時からは音を小さくしてください。

From 9 o’clock, please keep the sound low.

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