Going abroad for business, especially when you do not know the language, can feel overwhelming. Stepping into a new culture, in the hopes of expanding your business, requires not only strategy but also an understanding of essential
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Japanese business phrases. A good place to start is by learning some key expressions that can help ease communication in professional settings and make you feel more comfortable.
Japan, ranked the fourth-largest economy in 2012, is an excellent place to expand your company. If you’re planning to do business in Japan, knowing essential Japanese words will help you interact with clients and colleagues. Here’s a guide to important phrases, their meanings, and how to use them in your business journey.
Basic Japanese Phrases for Daily Use
The following phrases are commonly used in daily conversations and in professional environments. Learning these will make your interactions smoother in both social and business settings.
- Ohayō gozaimasu (O-hi-o-go-zai-mas)- Good morning
This greeting is essential when arriving at work or attending early meetings.
- Konnichiwa (kon-knee-chi-wa)- Hello/ good afternoon
A polite greeting suitable for mid-day conversations, both formal and casual.
- Konbanwa (kon-ban-wa)- Good evening
Often used when meeting colleagues or clients in the evening. It’s also one of the most searched phrases, including variants like konbanwa meaning and konbanwa translation.
- Oyasumi nasai (o-ya-su-mi-nah-sigh) – Good night
If you’re wrapping up a business dinner or event, this phrase is the appropriate way to wish someone goodnight.
- Sumimasen (Sum-me-mah-sen)- Excuse me/ sorry
Sumimasen can be used for multiple purposes, including getting someone’s attention, apologizing and saying thanks. This expression is used frequently in daily conversations.
Common Business Japanese Phrases
Mastering common business Japanese phrases is essential for effective communication in professional settings. Understanding such phrases reflects Japan’s business concept of harmony and mutual respect. This aligns with the famous Japanese slogan “Omoiyari,” meaning thoughtfulness or consideration for others.
- Arigatou/domo arigatou/domo arigatou gozaimasu (dough-mo-ah-ri-gah-toe-go-zai-mas)- Thank you
Whether it’s a small favor or a large one, expressing gratitude is a fundamental part of Japanese business culture. You can find variations like arigatou gozaimasu translation and translate arigatou gozaimasu useful depending on the formality needed.
- Hajimemashite (ha-gee-me-mah-she-te), Yoroshiku onegaishimasu (yo-ro-shi-ku-on-knee-gai-she-mas)- Nice to meet you
This phrase is essential during self-introductions (jikoshoukai) when meeting new clients or colleagues. Combine it with yoroshiku onegaishimasu (yo-ro-shi-ku-on-knee-gai-she-mas) to convey politeness at the end of your introduction.
- Watashi wa ___ desu (wah-tah-she-wah-_____des)- I am ______.
Introduce yourself clearly by filling in your name or role, which is a key part of Japanese business etiquette.
- O genki desu ka? (o-gen-ki-des-ka)-How are you?
Hai, genki desu. (high-gen-ki-des)- I’m fine, thank you.
- Wakarimasu (wa-ka-ri-mas) – I understand.
You’ll often hear and use this phrase in meetings or during discussions. When you don’t understand something, you can say wakarimasen (wa-ka-ri-ma-sen).
Related: Tips for learning Japanese as a Second Language
Business Culture Words You Should Know
Learning about Japanese work culture can give you a significant advantage. Here are some common terms used in business contexts.
- Sararīman (Sa-rah-ree-man)- Japanese white collar business man
A common term for a salaryman, representing typical corporate workers in Japan.
- Kaisha (ka-eye-sha)- company
A word frequently used when discussing or referring to a business or company in Japan.
- Shachō (sha-choe)- company president
If you’re dealing with higher management, knowing this term for company president or CEO can be helpful.
- Keiyaku (Kay-yah-ku)- agreement/contract
Essential when discussing business deals or formalizing agreements with Japanese partners.
Politeness Levels in Japanese Business
In Japan, the level of politeness you express is crucial, especially in business. Formality varies depending on who you’re speaking with – clients, bosses, or colleagues. Phrases like konbanwa meaning in Japanese and essential Japanese words reflect the need to understand different levels of speech in the workplace.
Practical Tips for Japanese Business Etiquette
Learning the right phrases is only the start. Here are some tips to avoid common mistakes when navigating Japanese work culture:
- Bowing – Always bow when greeting or thanking someone.
- Exchanging Business Cards – When exchanging cards, say “chōdai itashimasu” as a sign of respect.
- Phone Etiquette – On the phone, use phrases like “osewa ni narimasu” to thank clients for their ongoing support.
Expanding Your Business in Japan
Mastering these Japanese phrases for business can open doors to more meaningful relationships with your Japanese colleagues and clients. From basic greetings to navigating formal conversations, each phrase brings you closer to understanding Japanese business culture and achieving success in international markets.
Knowing some basic Japanese phrases will be useful both when meeting Japanese clients, and when roaming about Japan. For more Japanese phrases, click here.
