How to Say ‘Because (it is); so’ in Japanese
ですから
desu kara
[dess kah-rah]
💬 Usage Tip: [ですから] = “so / that’s why” in a polite tone. Often used to give a gentle reason before a request. In conversation it can sound like “So, you see…” (softer than a blunt “because”).
🇯🇵 In Japan: Giving a reason in Japanese can feel like you’re smoothing the path for the other person to say yes. It helps avoid sounding like a direct complaint.
Phrase Breakdown
です
desu
[dess]
is/are (polite copula)
Polite copula that can connect to から to give a reason: ですから (“so/because of that”).
ご近所ですから、いつでも言ってください。
Since we’re neighbors, please tell me anytime.
から
kara
[kah-rah]
because; so; therefore
Reason/explanation marker. After a polite statement (です), it becomes ですから (“so/that’s why”). Often used to sound friendly and logical.
ご近所ですから、遠慮しないで言ってください。
Since we’re neighbors, please don’t hesitate to tell me.
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