Tag: Everyday Japanese phrases

  • Understanding “Otsukaresama Desu”: A Small Phrase That Holds Japan’s Heart

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    When I first started working in Japan, I noticed one phrase floating around the workplace more than any other: “Otsukaresama desu.” People said it so often—after meetings, after lunch, even in the middle of the day. At first, I wasn’t sure what it really meant. But over time, I realized that this simple phrase carries…

    A man wearing a white shirt rests inside a parked car with a towel over his eyes, taking a nap after work.
  • The Many Ways to Say “Oishii” in Japanese: Living Deliciously in Japan

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    In Japan, “oishii” is more than just “delicious.” It’s a word that shows up in everyday meals, in TV dramas, and in conversations that celebrate life’s small joys. On Oishii Days, I want to share not only how to use oishii when eating but also the many other ways Japanese people express taste and enjoyment.…