How to Say ‘Please’ in Japanese
お願いします
o negai shi masu
[oh neh-gah-ee shee mahss]
💬 Usage Tip: [お願いします] is more than just “please.” It can also mean “I’d appreciate it,” “go ahead,” or “I request that.” Super useful.
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is one of Japan’s magic phrases. In travel situations, it can politely cover many needs without sounding demanding.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[oh]
honorific prefix
Polite prefix used in set expressions like お願いします.
お願いしますと伝えました。
I said, 'Please.'
願い
negai
[neh-gah-ee]
request; favor
The noun form of wishing or requesting something; part of the polite phrase お願いします.
ご確認をお願いしました。
I requested confirmation.
し
shi
[shee]
do; make
The stem of する, used here in the fixed polite expression お願いします.
対応をお願いします。
Please handle it.
ます
masu
[mahss]
polite present/future ending
Polite ending that makes the request expression formal and courteous.
ご案内をお願いします。
Please guide me/us.
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