A Zen sand garden with smooth, curved lines running through it, with three stones stacked on top of each other in the middle. The text on the images says, "10 Useful Japanese Proverbs to Sound Like a Native Speaker."

10 Useful Japanese Proverbs to Make You Sound Like a Pro

Proverbs are used a lot in Japanese conversations. There are approximately 43,000 Japanese proverbs, according to the Great Dictionary of Tradition and Proverbs. Many of them are deeply rooted in traditional Japanese culture. Using common Japanese proverbs in conversations will surprise your friends with your knowledge and make conversations effective and exciting. This article will … Read more

An Asian woman dressed in a Japanese kimono standing in front of a Japanese style entrance, with her hands gesturing to the entrance to welcome someone.

Natural Japanese Expressions: Ittekimasu, Itterasshai, Tadaima and Okaerinasai

Whether you’re settling into your Japanese homestay, trying to fit in better at the office, or just wanting to make some new friends, you’ve probably heard these phrases: ittekimasu, itterasshai, tadaima, and okaerinasai. It’s safe to say that people in Japan use them every day! But what do they mean? Let’s take a look at the definitions of these vital Japanese … Read more

A traditional Japanese room with tatami style mats, with the door open that looks out into a green Japanese garden. In the center is an elderly Asian man and woman seated on a cushion on their knees, with a black table between them. The woman is pouring the man a cup of tea.

Itadakimasu and Gochisousama Deshita: Being Polite in Japan

If you’ve watched anime or other Japanese media, you’ve probably heard the phrases いただきます(itadakimasu) and ごちそうさまでした (gochisousama deshita). But what do they mean?  When eating food is involved, Itadakimasu is translated as, “I receive this meal.” Gochisousama deshita means “thank you for the meal.” However, there are deeper meanings to both of these humble Japanese phrases.  In this article, we’ll be … Read more