Everyday Phrases
Set phrases for coming and going at home, asking someone to wait, and calling for help.
- いってきます ittekimasu I'm leaving (and I'll be back) Neutral
- ただいま tadaima I'm home / I'm back Neutral
- お待たせいたしました omatase itashimashita Thank you for waiting / Sorry to keep you waiting Polite
- 少々お待ちください shōshō omachi kudasai Please wait a moment Polite
- 助けて tasukete Help! Casual
- 待って matte Wait! Casual
The level of politeness changes with the person and the situation. When in doubt, the polite form is the safe choice. A phrase marked with two levels, such as “Neutral / Casual,” is used in both kinds of situations.