How to Say ‘You’re welcome.’ in Japanese
どういたしまして。
dou itashi mashi te
[dou itashi mashi te]
💬 Usage Tip: [どういたしまして] is the textbook “you’re welcome,” though in real life Japanese people do not always say it after thanks.
🇯🇵 In Japan: In customer service, staff may instead smile and say something modest or helpful rather than use [どういたしまして] every time.
Phrase Breakdown
どう
dou
[dou]
how
Part of the set phrase どういたしまして, used in you're welcome.
どういたしまして、と答えました。
I replied, 'You're welcome.'
いたし
itashi
[itashi]
do (humble)
Humble verb part in the set phrase どういたしまして.
どういたしまして、と笑顔で言いました。
I said, 'You're welcome,' with a smile.
まし
mashi
[mashi]
polite past/formal part
Part of the fixed polite expression どういたしまして.
どういたしましては丁寧な言い方です。
Douitashimashite is a polite way of speaking.
て
te
[te]
and / te-form ending
Te-form ending that appears as part of the fixed phrase.
どういたしまして、と伝えます。
I say, 'You're welcome.'
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
Get Full LessonWhat 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