In today’s interconnected world, mastering a foreign language can open up numerous professional opportunities. For English speakers aiming to break into the Japanese market, having a good grasp of Business Japanese is essential. Whether you’re planning to work in Japan, establish partnerships with Japanese companies, or simply want to improve your language skills, understanding key phrases and vocabulary used in the business context will significantly enhance your communication capabilities.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into specific phrases and vocabulary, it is important to understand the foundational elements of Japanese business culture and language. Japanese business etiquette is deeply rooted in respect, formality, and hierarchy. These cultural aspects shape the way language is used in professional settings.
Keigo (敬語): Keigo is the Japanese term for respectful or honorific language. It is divided into three main categories: sonkeigo (尊敬語, respectful language), kenjougo (謙譲語, humble language), and teineigo (丁寧語, polite language). Mastering keigo is crucial for anyone involved in Japanese business as it reflects your respect towards colleagues, superiors, and clients.
Hierarchy and Titles: Titles are very important in Japanese business culture. When addressing someone, it’s common to use their last name followed by a title such as “san” (さん) for general politeness, “sama” (様) for higher respect, “sensei” (先生) for teachers or doctors, and company-specific titles like “buchou” (部長, department head) or “shachou” (社長, company president).
Key Phrases for Introductions and Greetings
First impressions are critical in Japanese business culture. Proper introductions and greetings set the tone for any professional interaction. Here are some essential phrases:
1. Greeting:
– おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – Good morning.
– こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Good afternoon.
– こんばんは (Konbanwa) – Good evening.
2. Introductions:
– 初めまして (Hajimemashite) – Nice to meet you.
– 私の名前は [Your Name] です (Watashi no namae wa [Your Name] desu) – My name is [Your Name].
– [Company Name] の [Your Name] です ([Company Name] no [Your Name] desu) – I am [Your Name] from [Company Name].
3. Business Card Exchange:
– 名刺をお持ちですか？ (Meishi o omochi desu ka?) – Do you have a business card?
– どうぞよろしくお願いします (Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu) – Please treat me favorably (a common phrase used after introductions).
Key Vocabulary for Meetings
Meetings are a fundamental part of business operations. Knowing the right vocabulary can help you navigate these interactions smoothly.
1. Setting Up a Meeting:
– 会議を設定したいのですが (Kaigi o settei shitai no desu ga) – I would like to set up a meeting.
– 空いている時間はありますか？ (Aiteiru jikan wa arimasu ka?) – Do you have any available time?
– 日程を調整しましょう (Nittei o chousei shimashou) – Let’s adjust the schedule.
2. During the Meeting:
– 会議を始めましょう (Kaigi o hajimemashou) – Let’s start the meeting.
– 議題 (Gidai) – Agenda.
– 発表 (Happyou) – Presentation.
– 質問があります (Shitsumon ga arimasu) – I have a question.
– 意見を述べたいのですが (Iken o nobetai no desu ga) – I would like to express my opinion.
3. Ending the Meeting:
– 会議を終了しましょう (Kaigi o shuuryou shimashou) – Let’s end the meeting.
– 会議の内容を確認しましょう (Kaigi no naiyou o kakunin shimashou) – Let’s review the content of the meeting.
– ご参加ありがとうございました (Go sanka arigatou gozaimashita) – Thank you for your participation.
Key Phrases for Negotiations
Negotiating in Japanese requires a delicate balance of directness and politeness. Here are some phrases to help you navigate this process:
1. Expressing Interest:
– 御社の提案に興味があります (Onsha no teian ni kyoumi ga arimasu) – We are interested in your proposal.
– ぜひ協力したいと思います (Zehi kyouryoku shitai to omoimasu) – We would definitely like to cooperate.
2. Making Offers and Counteroffers:
– こちらの条件はいかがでしょうか？ (Kochira no jouken wa ikaga deshou ka?) – How do you find these terms?
– もう少し譲歩できますか？ (Mou sukoshi jouho dekimasu ka?) – Can you make a little more concession?
3. Reaching Agreements:
– この条件で合意しましょう (Kono jouken de goui shimashou) – Let’s agree on these terms.
– 契約を結びましょう (Keiyaku o musubimashou) – Let’s sign the contract.
Key Vocabulary for Emails and Correspondence
Written communication is just as important as verbal communication in business. Here are some key phrases and vocabulary for crafting professional emails and letters:
1. Opening and Closing Phrases:
– 拝啓 (Haikei) – Dear Sir/Madam (formal opening).
– 敬具 (Keigu) – Sincerely (formal closing).
– お世話になっております (Osewa ni natte orimasu) – Thank you for your continued support (common opening phrase).
2. Common Email Phrases:
– ご返信お待ちしております (Go henshin omachi shite orimasu) – I am looking forward to your reply.
– どうぞよろしくお願いいたします (Douzo yoroshiku onegai itashimasu) – Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
3. Sending Attachments:
– 添付ファイルをご確認ください (Tenpu fairu o go kakunin kudasai) – Please check the attached file.
– 資料を送付いたします (Shiryou o soufu itashimasu) – I am sending the materials.
Politeness and Formality
In Japanese business, politeness and formality are paramount. Using the right level of politeness can make or break a business relationship. Here are some key points to remember:
1. Addressing Superiors and Clients:
– Always use “san” (さん) after the person’s name, or “sama” (様) for higher respect.
– Use humble language (kenjougo) when referring to yourself or your company’s actions.
– Use respectful language (sonkeigo) when referring to the actions of others.
2. Apologizing:
– 申し訳ございません (Moushiwake gozaimasen) – I am very sorry (very formal).
– ご迷惑をお掛けして申し訳ございません (Gomeiwaku o okake shite moushiwake gozaimasen) – I apologize for the inconvenience caused.
Conclusion
Mastering Business Japanese requires more than just understanding the language; it involves appreciating the cultural nuances and showing respect through appropriate etiquette. By familiarizing yourself with the key phrases and vocabulary outlined in this article, you can navigate the complexities of Japanese business communication with greater confidence.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Regularly using these phrases in real-life situations, whether through role-playing, attending business meetings, or corresponding via email, will help you become more comfortable and proficient in Business Japanese. Good luck on your journey towards mastering this valuable skill!
