Learning how to greet someone properly in Japanese is one of the most important parts of mastering the language—especially if you want to speak respectfully and make a good impression. In Japanese culture, politeness plays a central role in everyday interactions, and greetings are often the first test of your social awareness.
Whether you're meeting someone new, starting a conversation, or thanking someone for their time, using the right polite Japanese greetings helps you show respect and speak with confidence.
In this article, we’ll introduce some of the most commonly used polite Japanese greetings, explain when to use them, and help you understand why they matter so much in conversations.
Why Polite Greetings Are So Important
Japanese is a language that emphasizes hierarchy and social harmony. That means how you speak—especially how you greet someone—changes based on who you’re talking to and where you are. Using a polite greeting shows not only good manners, but also your understanding of Japanese customs.
If you’re speaking to someone older, in a formal setting, or someone you’re meeting for the first time, polite greetings are essential. They help you:
Build trust and positive relationships
Avoid sounding rude or too casual
Communicate clearly in work, school, or social settings
Essential Polite Japanese Greetings
Here are the most important polite greetings to know, along with when and how to use them:
1. おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – Good Morning
This is the polite way to say “good morning” in Japanese. You should use it in all formal settings, such as at work, school, or when greeting someone you don’t know well.
Use this greeting until around 10:00 a.m.
Say it with a slight bow to show extra respect
The casual version is simply おはよう (Ohayou), but be sure to use the full polite form in public or professional situations.
2. こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello / Good Afternoon
This is a safe, polite greeting that you can use from late morning until the early evening. It’s commonly used in shops, offices, and during daily encounters with people you may not know personally.
Konnichiwa is neutral and respectful, making it perfect for most situations.
3. こんばんは (Konbanwa) – Good Evening
When greeting someone after sunset, use Konbanwa. This polite greeting is ideal when arriving at a restaurant, attending an evening event, or meeting someone in the evening.
4. はじめまして (Hajimemashite) – Nice to Meet You
Use this phrase the first time you meet someone. It’s a polite way to start an introduction and is usually followed by your name and:
5. どうぞよろしくお願いします (Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu)
This expression doesn’t have a direct English translation but roughly means, “Please treat me kindly” or “I’m looking forward to working with you.” It’s a polite and respectful way to end a self-introduction.
6. さようなら (Sayounara) – Goodbye
This is a formal goodbye, often used when you don’t expect to see the person again for a while. While not as common in casual situations, it’s appropriate in schools, workplaces, or more serious farewells.
7. お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu) – Thank You for Your Hard Work
This phrase is widely used in offices and professional settings. It’s a polite way to acknowledge someone’s effort and is said when ending work for the day, finishing a meeting, or passing by a coworker.
A more respectful version is お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita), used after the work is done.
8. おやすみなさい (Oyasuminasai) – Good Night
Use this polite phrase when saying goodnight, especially to someone older or outside your close circle. The casual version おやすみ (Oyasumi) is used with friends and family.
Tips for Using Polite Greetings Effectively
Watch body language: In Japan, a small bow often accompanies greetings.
Match the setting: In formal environments, always use polite forms first.
Listen and repeat: Pay attention to how native speakers greet one another and mirror their tone and formality.
Polite Japanese greetings are more than just phrases—they are tools that show your respect and understanding of the culture. Mastering these greetings helps you speak more naturally, make better first impressions, and feel confident in conversations.
At Japanese Language Coaching, we teach students how to use these greetings in real-life settings, so they can communicate clearly and respectfully. Whether you're greeting coworkers, teachers, or new friends, start with the right words—and you’ll be off to a strong start.