How do I make a phone call in Japanese?

Understanding Japanese Phone Etiquette

Before picking up the phone, it’s important to recognize that Japanese society places a high value on politeness and respect. This is reflected in how phone conversations are structured. Using the appropriate level of formality and certain set phrases is key to making a good impression, especially when calling someone you do not know well or in a business context.

General Rules for Phone Calls in Japan

• Always greet the person and state your name or the company you represent.
• Use polite language (keigo) whenever possible, especially in formal or professional settings.
• Apologize for taking up their time, especially if your call is unexpected.
• Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.

Essential Japanese Phrases for Making a Phone Call

How to Start a Phone Call

When your call is answered, start with a greeting and introduce yourself. Here are some key phrases:

• Moshi moshi (もしもし) – Used when answering the phone, especially in casual situations.
• Hai, [your name] desu. (はい、[your name] です。) – Yes, this is [your name].
• Osewa ni natte orimasu. (お世話になっております。) – A very polite phrase commonly used in business calls, meaning “Thank you for your continued support.”
• [Your company name] no [your name] to moushimasu. ([Your company name] の [your name] と申します。) – This is [your name] from [your company].

Asking for the Person You Want to Speak With

• [Person’s name]-san wa irasshaimasu ka? ([Person’s name] さんはいらっしゃいますか？) – Is [Person’s name] there?
• [Person’s name]-san onegai dekimasu ka? ([Person’s name] さんお願いできますか？) – May I speak to [Person’s name]?

Explaining the Purpose of Your Call

Once you are connected, briefly state the reason for your call:

• [Purpose] no koto de odenwa shimashita. ([Purpose] のことでお電話しました。) – I am calling regarding [purpose].
• Sumimasen, ima ojikan yoroshii desu ka? (すみません、今お時間よろしいですか？) – Excuse me, is now a good time to talk?

Ending the Call Politely

Japanese phone calls often end with several rounds of polite goodbyes and thanks:

• Arigatou gozaimashita. (ありがとうございました。) – Thank you very much.
• Shitsurei itashimasu. (失礼いたします。) – A very polite way of saying goodbye, literally “I will be rude now,” signaling the end of the call.
• Yoroshiku onegai shimasu. (よろしくお願いします。) – Please take care of this/thank you in advance.

Sample Dialogue: Making a Phone Call in Japanese

Here is a simple example of how a phone conversation might go:

A: Hai, [Company Name] desu. (Hello, this is [Company Name].)
B: Osewa ni natte orimasu. [Your Company Name] no [Your Name] to moushimasu. [Person's Name]-san wa irasshaimasu ka?
A: Hai, shoushou omachi kudasai. (Yes, please hold.)
C: Odenwa kawarimashita, [Person's Name] desu. (I’ve taken the call, this is [Person's Name].)
B: Osewa ni natte orimasu. [Purpose] no koto de odenwa shimashita. (Thank you for your continued support. I’m calling regarding [purpose].)
C: Hai, wakarimashita. (I understand.)
B: Arigatou gozaimashita. Shitsurei itashimasu. (Thank you very much. Goodbye.)
C: Shitsurei itashimasu. (Goodbye.)

Tips for Improving Your Japanese Phone Skills

• Practice with language partners or use AI platforms like Talkpal to simulate phone conversations.
• Write out scripts and rehearse common scenarios.
• Listen to native Japanese speakers making phone calls to get used to natural speed and intonation.
• Start with simple calls, such as making reservations or inquiries, before moving on to more complex business conversations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using casual language in formal or business contexts.
• Failing to introduce yourself at the beginning of the call.
• Forgetting to thank the person and end the call politely.
• Speaking too quickly or quietly, making it hard for the other person to understand you.

Conclusion

Making a phone call in Japanese doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right phrases, a polite attitude, and some practice, you can communicate clearly and confidently. Remember to use the structure and expressions outlined here, and take advantage of language learning resources like Talkpal to improve your skills. Whether you’re handling a personal matter or a business inquiry, mastering Japanese phone calls is a valuable step on your language learning journey.