PrettyFluent
This is just a lesson preview. Get the interactive lesson free on PrettyFluent
👉

How to Say ‘This way; here; this (polite)’ in Japanese

こちら

kochira

[koh-chee-rah]

💬 Usage Tip: [こちら] is the polite version of [こっち]. It can mean “this,” “here,” or even “me/us” in humble speech.

🇯🇵 In Japan: Polite spatial words like [こちら] are common in customer-service Japanese, and using them with neighbors can sound respectfully “adult.”

Phrase Breakdown

こちら

kochira

[koh-chee-rah]

this way; here; this (polite); I/we (humble)

Polite word meaning “here/this” or “this way.” In greetings it can mean “we/us” (our side). Used to sound formal with neighbors.

Example

こちらとしては夜十時以降は静かにしていただけると助かります。

From our side, it would help if you could keep it quiet after 10 p.m.

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

Download PrettyFluent on the App StoreGet Full Lesson

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