In many languages, the way you speak changes depending on who you’re talking to. Japanese is no exception, but differences in politeness are often reflected in the expressions people choose. The same idea can sound polite, casual, or very relaxed just by switching words.
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This article is based on a video by Fun Fun Nihongo, our Japanese learning content series.
Polite, Casual and Slang in Japanese
Most languages offer different ways to say the same thing, depending on the situation and your relationship with the listener. Japanese is no exception, but changes in politeness are often noticeable in everyday expressions.
Many everyday expressions in Japanese fall into three levels: polite, neutral and very casual or slang. Knowing where each phrase sits helps you choose the right words for each situation.
Slang expressions are usually very casual and are best used with close friends, while polite expressions are safer in formal or unfamiliar settings.
Below are seven pairs that show how the same meaning can sound very different.
Greetings
こんにちは。
- Konnichiwa.
Hello.
A standard and polite greeting that can be used in many situations, including with people you don’t know well.
やっほー。
- Yahhō.
Hello. / Hi.
A very casual greeting used among friends. It sounds friendly and playful, but it’s not suitable for formal situations.
Saying Thank You
ありがとうございます。
- Arigatō gozaimasu.
Thank you.
A polite and safe way to say thank you in most situations, including at work or with strangers.
In everyday conversation, people often use just “Arigatō,” which is more neutral — not very formal, but not slang either.
あざっす。
- Azassu.
Thank you. / Thanks.
A slangy, shortened form often heard among close friends or coworkers in casual settings. It can sound too relaxed in formal situations.
Ending Work or a Conversation
お疲れ様です。
- Otsukaresama desu.
Great effort today.
A polite expression commonly used at work after finishing a task or at the end of the day.
This expression doesn’t have a perfect English equivalent, but it’s commonly used to acknowledge someone’s effort or to mark the end of work.
In casual conversation, people often say “Otsukaresama.” or “Otsukare.” as a friendlier, less formal version.
おつ。
- Otsu
Great effort today.
An extremely casual shortened form. It’s mainly used with close friends and sounds too rough for most work or formal situations.
Asking About a Situation
いかがですか？
- Ikaga desu ka?
How is it?
A polite way to ask about a situation, condition, or result.
It’s also commonly used when offering or recommending something, similar to “How about this?” or “Would you like this?”
どう？
- Dō?
How is it?
A short and casual version used with friends or people you know well.
It can also be used when casually suggesting something, like “How about this?”
Apologizing
大変申し訳ございません。
- Taihen mōshiwake gozaimasen.
I’m very sorry.
A very polite and formal apology, often used in business or serious situations.
In everyday speech, people more commonly use neutral expressions like “Sumimasen” or “Gomen nasai,” depending on the level of politeness needed.
マジでごめん。
- Maji de gomen.
I’m very sorry.
A very casual apology used among friends. The word “maji” adds emphasis and makes the apology sound emotional and informal.
Congratulations
おめでとうございます。
- Omedetō gozaimasu.
Congratulations.
A polite way to congratulate someone, suitable for formal occasions or when speaking politely.
おめでとう。
- Omedetō.
Congratulations. / Congrats.
A casual version commonly used with friends and family.
In very casual speech, people may shorten it to “Ome.” This sounds friendly and informal, and is best used only with close friends.
Compliments
とても美しいです。
- Totemo utsukushii desu
It’s (You’re) very beautiful.
A polite and formal compliment. It can sound a bit stiff in casual conversation.
マジかわいい。
- Maji kawaii.
It’s (You’re) very beautiful. / So cute.
A very casual and expressive compliment often used among friends. The word “maji” adds emphasis and makes it sound more emotional.
Quick Tip
When learning slang, it’s usually better to listen first before using it yourself. Polite expressions are always safe, while casual and slang expressions work best once you’re comfortable with the situation and the relationship.
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Performer, Fun Fun NihongoKotone is a Tokyo University of Foreign Studies graduate, where she majored in Philippine Studies. After studying abroad in Brunei and interning at a startup in Malaysia, she now works as a model while continuing to explore the world.
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