24 Essential Japanese Phrases for Mealtime Prep & Thanks

Mealtime is more than just eating — it’s a moment to share, prepare, and give thanks.

Whether you’re cooking at home or enjoying a meal with friends in Japan, knowing the right phrases can make the experience warmer and more connected. Plus, it’s a fun way to practice your Japanese!

From prepping the food to expressing gratitude afterward, these 24 essential phrases will help you sound natural and polite.

They’ll also boost your confidence in everyday conversations around the dining table, whether you’re a beginner or brushing up on your skills.

Learning these phrases is a small step that opens the door to deeper cultural understanding and connection.

Ready to dive in and make your next meal prep or thank-you moment truly special? Let’s get started!

Getting Ready to Say It Right

Before we jump into the phrases, it helps to know the basics of Japanese mealtime etiquette.

Simple greetings and polite expressions set a positive tone. These small words carry big respect and kindness, making your interactions smoother and more genuine.

Understanding these fundamentals will make learning the phrases easier and more meaningful.

Sometimes, using a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.

Knowing when and how to use these phrases helps you avoid awkward moments and shows your appreciation for the culture.

It’s a simple trick: the more you practice, the more natural it feels to say “Itadakimasu” or “Gochisousama” at the right moment.

Part 1: Casual Suggestions

1. いただきます (Itadakimasu) – ee-tah-dah-kee-mah-su (ee-tah-dah-kee-mahss)

This phrase means “I humbly receive” and is said before starting a meal.

It’s a polite way of showing gratitude to everyone involved in preparing the food, including nature’s gifts. Beginners often find it easy to remember because it’s used daily.

Saying “itadakimasu” sets a respectful mood before eating.

It’s one of the first phrases Japanese learners pick up to sound natural at mealtime.

Related phrase: “Gochisousama” (more on this later) is said after the meal.

Don’t worry if you’re shy at first—just a smile and this phrase will make you feel part of the culture quickly.

2. ごちそうさまでした (Gochisousama deshita) – goh-chee-soh-sah-mah deh-shee-tah (goh-chee-soh-sah-mah deh-shee-tah)

This phrase means “Thank you for the meal” and is said after eating.

It’s an expression of thanks to the cook and everything that went into the food. Easy to remember as it’s a set phrase often repeated.

Always use it to show your appreciation—it’s polite and deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

A common mistake is skipping this phrase, which can seem rude.

Example: After finishing dinner at a friend’s house, you say “Gochisousama deshita!” with a smile.

Using this phrase regularly helps you build stronger social bonds.

3. 手伝いましょうか？ (Tetsudai mashou ka?) – teh-tsu-dai mah-shoh kah? (teh-tsu-dai mah-shoh kah?)

This question means “Shall I help you?” and is perfect for offering assistance during mealtime prep.

It’s simple to say and shows kindness and teamwork. You can practice by offering help when cooking with friends or family.

Using this phrase encourages a collaborative spirit.

It’s polite and thoughtful, making you sound considerate.

Related phrase: “手伝ってくれてありがとう” (Tetsudatte kurete arigatou) means “Thank you for helping.”

Offering help with this phrase instantly makes you a considerate guest or host.

4. 今、料理しています (Ima, ryouri shiteimasu) – ee-mah, ryo-ree shee-teh-ee-mah-su (ee-mah, ryo-ree shee-teh-ee-mah-su)

This means “I’m cooking now” — a handy phrase when you want to share what you’re up to.

It’s straightforward and breaks down into “ima” (now), “ryouri” (cooking), and “shiteimasu” (doing). Easy to remember with daily practice.

It lets others know you’re busy preparing food politely.

Use it to update friends or family without needing complicated sentences.

Common mistake: forgetting polite form “shiteimasu” can sound abrupt.

Example: “Ima, ryouri shiteimasu, so please wait a moment.”

5. 美味しそう！ (Oishisou!) – oh-ee-shee-soh (oh-ee-shee-soh)

This phrase means “Looks delicious!” and is great for complimenting food during prep or before eating.

It’s short, casual, and positive, making it easy to use in everyday conversations.

Saying this boosts morale and shows enthusiasm.

It’s a perfect phrase to encourage cooks or hosts.

Related phrase: “おいしい” (Oishii) means “delicious,” used after tasting the food.

Use “Oishisou!” to spread good vibes and appreciation early on.

6. ちょっと待ってください (Chotto matte kudasai) – choht-toh maht-teh koo-dah-sah-ee (choht-toh maht-teh koo-dah-sah-ee)

This means “Please wait a moment” and is useful when you need a short pause during prep or serving.

It’s polite and common, combining “chotto” (a little), “matte” (wait), and “kudasai” (please).

Using this phrase helps manage timing smoothly around the kitchen.

It prevents confusion and keeps things organized.

Common mistake: omitting “kudasai” can sound less polite.

Example: “Chotto matte kudasai, I’ll be right back with your drink.”

7. これを使ってもいいですか？ (Kore o tsukatte mo ii desu ka?) – koh-reh oh tsu-kah-tteh moh ee deh-su kah? (koh-reh oh tsu-kah-tteh moh ee deh-su kah?)

This phrase means “May I use this?” and is perfect when you want to politely ask to use something in the kitchen.

It breaks down into “kore” (this), “o” (object marker), “tsukatte” (using), “mo ii desu ka” (is it okay?).

It’s a polite and effective way to avoid misunderstandings.

Beginners find it useful because it fits many situations.

Related phrase: “使ってもいいですよ” (Tsukatte mo ii desu yo) means “You may use it.”

Asking first shows respect and keeps the atmosphere friendly.

8. もうすぐできあがります (Mou sugu dekiagarimasu) – moh soo-goo deh-kee-ah-gah-ree-mah-su (moh soo-goo deh-kee-ah-gah-ree-mah-su)

This means “It will be ready soon,” a great phrase for updating everyone during meal prep.

It’s easy to remember by breaking it down: “mou sugu” (soon), “dekiagarimasu” (will be finished).

It helps manage expectations politely.

Use it to keep the mood upbeat and let people know when to expect food.

Common mistake: confusing “dekimasu” (can do) with “dekiagarimasu” (finished).

Example: “Mou sugu dekiagarimasu, please wait a little more.”

Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions

9. お先にいただきます (Osaki ni itadakimasu) – oh-sah-kee nee ee-tah-dah-kee-mah-su (oh-sah-kee nee ee-tah-dah-kee-mahss)

This phrase means “I’ll start eating before you” and is used politely when you begin your meal ahead of others.

It shows courtesy and respect to those who are still preparing or waiting.

Using this phrase is a sign of good manners in formal settings.

It’s a nice way to acknowledge others even as you start.

Related phrase: “お先に失礼します” (Osaki ni shitsurei shimasu) means “Excuse me for leaving before you.”

It’s a subtle but important way to maintain harmony during group meals.

10. ごゆっくりどうぞ (Goyukkuri douzo) – goh-yook-koo-ree doh-zoh (goh-yook-koo-ree doh-zoh)

This phrase means “Please take your time” or “Enjoy your meal slowly.”

It’s polite and comforting, often said by hosts to guests.

It encourages relaxation and enjoyment at the table.

Using this phrase shows consideration for others’ comfort.

Common mistake: skipping this phrase can make guests feel rushed.

Example: “Goyukkuri douzo,” said with a gentle smile as people begin eating.

11. 料理がとても美味しいです (Ryouri ga totemo oishii desu) – ryo-ree gah toh-teh-moh oh-ee-shee deh-su (ryo-ree gah toh-teh-moh oh-ee-shee deh-su)

This means “The food is very delicious” and is a polite compliment to the cook.

It’s a great way to express appreciation formally and sincerely.

Using such compliments uplifts the mood and shows respect.

It’s good practice to include “totemo” (very) to emphasize your praise.

Related phrase: “とても上手に作りましたね” (Totemo jouzu ni tsukurimashita ne) means “You cooked very well.”

Expressing gratitude with words deepens connections around the table.

12. 失礼します、手を洗ってきます (Shitsurei shimasu, te o aratte kimasu) – shee-tsu-reh-ee shee-mah-su, teh oh ah-rah-tteh kee-mah-su (shee-tsu-reh-ee shee-mah-su, teh oh ah-rah-tteh kee-mah-su)

This means “Excuse me, I will go wash my hands,” a polite way to announce you’re stepping away briefly.

It’s simple to remember and shows respect for hygiene and manners.

Using this phrase avoids confusion and shows consideration.

Common mistake: not excusing yourself can be seen as rude in formal settings.

Example: “Shitsurei shimasu, te o aratte kimasu,” said before leaving the table.

It’s a subtle but important phrase for politeness at meals.

13. 何かお手伝いできることはありますか？ (Nanika otetsudai dekiru koto wa arimasu ka?) – nah-nee-kah oh-teh-tsu-dai deh-kee-roo koh-toh wah ah-ree-mah-su kah? (nah-nee-kah oh-teh-tsu-dai deh-kee-roo koh-toh wah ah-ree-mah-su kah?)

This means “Is there anything I can help with?” and is a very polite way to offer assistance.

It’s longer but worth practicing because it shows thoughtfulness and respect.

Using this phrase can strengthen relationships by showing your willingness to contribute.

It’s perfect for formal or unfamiliar situations.

Related phrase: “お手伝いしますよ” (Otetsudai shimasu yo) means “I will help.”

Offering help with this phrase is always appreciated and noticed.

14. ごゆっくり召し上がってください (Goyukkuri meshiagatte kudasai) – goh-yook-koo-ree meh-shee-ah-gaht-teh koo-dah-sah-ee (goh-yook-koo-ree meh-shee-ah-gaht-teh koo-dah-sah-ee)

This is an even more formal way to say “Please enjoy your meal slowly.”

It combines “goyukkuri” (slowly), “meshiagatte” (eat, honorific), and “kudasai” (please).

Using this phrase shows high respect and hospitality.

It’s ideal in formal dining or with elders.

Common mistake: using casual forms in formal dinners can be disrespectful.

Example: Saying “Goyukkuri meshiagatte kudasai” when serving guests at a special meal.

15. お世話になりました (Osewa ni narimashita) – oh-seh-wah nee nah-ree-mah-shi-tah (oh-seh-wah nee nah-ree-mah-shi-tah)

This phrase means “Thank you for taking care of me,” often said after being hosted for a meal.

It’s a formal way to express deep gratitude for hospitality.

Using it leaves a positive lasting impression.

It’s a thoughtful phrase to use especially with elders or in business settings.

Related phrase: “ありがとうございました” (Arigatou gozaimashita) means “Thank you very much” in past tense.

Showing appreciation with this phrase strengthens connections and respect.

16. お腹がいっぱいです (Onaka ga ippai desu) – oh-nah-kah gah ipp-eye deh-su (oh-nah-kah gah ipp-eye deh-su)

This means “I’m full” and is a polite way to say you’ve had enough to eat.

It’s simple and clear, combining “onaka” (stomach), “ga” (subject marker), and “ippai” (full), “desu” (polite copula).

Saying this politely can prevent overeating or awkward moments.

Use it to communicate your satisfaction without offending the host.

Common mistake: bluntly saying “no more” without politeness can be rude.

Example: “Onaka ga ippai desu, thank you for the wonderful meal.”

Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions

17. めっちゃおいしい！ (Meccha oishii!) – mech-chah oh-ee-shee (mech-chah oh-ee-shee)

This means “Super delicious!” and is very casual, perfect with friends or family.

“Meccha” is Kansai dialect slang for “very” or “really,” making your compliment sound lively and native-like.

Using this phrase adds fun and energy to your praise.

It’s great for informal situations but avoid in formal settings.

Related phrase: “めっちゃ好き” (Meccha suki) means “I really like it.”

Using slang like this helps you blend in with younger speakers.

18. ちょっと待って (Chotto matte) – choht-toh maht-teh (choht-toh maht-teh)

This casual version of “please wait a moment” drops the polite “kudasai.”

It’s common in daily life among friends or family and easy to say.

Use this when you want a quick pause but keep it informal.

Don’t use this in formal contexts as it can sound rude.

Example: “Chotto matte, I’ll get the chopsticks.”

This phrase is perfect for relaxed, everyday interactions.

19. おかわりください (Okawari kudasai) – oh-kah-wah-ree koo-dah-sah-ee (oh-kah-wah-ree koo-dah-sah-ee)

This means “Please give me a second helping” or “More, please.”

It’s polite yet casual, often used for rice or other dishes during meals.

It’s handy to know when enjoying a meal with friends or family.

Using this phrase shows enthusiasm for the food.

Common mistake: simply asking “more” without “kudasai” sounds rude.

Example: “Okawari kudasai,” said with a smile when you want seconds.

20. ごめん、ちょっと手伝って (Gomen, chotto tetsudatte) – go-men, choht-toh teh-tsu-dah-tteh (go-men, choht-toh teh-tsu-dah-tteh)

This casual phrase means “Sorry, can you help me a bit?”

It’s informal and friendly, perfect with people you know well.

“Gomen” means “sorry,” softening your request.

Be careful not to use this with strangers or elders.

Example: “Gomen, chotto tetsudatte,” when you need a quick hand in the kitchen.

It’s a useful phrase to keep things light and cooperative.

21. もう食べた？ (Mou tabeta?) – moh tah-beh-tah? (moh tah-beh-tah?)

This means “Have you already eaten?” and is a casual way to check in.

It’s great for casual conversation around meals or breaks.

Simple and easy to remember, it breaks down to “mou” (already) and “tabeta” (ate).

It’s often used to invite someone if they haven’t eaten yet.

Example: “Mou tabeta? If not, let’s eat together!”

Using this phrase helps you sound natural and caring.

22. お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita) – oh-tsu-kah-reh-sah-mah deh-shee-tah (oh-tsu-kah-reh-sah-mah deh-shee-tah)

This means “Thank you for your hard work” and is often said after cooking or cleaning up.

It’s polite and expresses appreciation for effort.

Use it to recognize everyone’s contribution to the meal prep.

It builds camaraderie and shows respect.

Common mistake: forgetting this phrase after group work misses a chance to bond.

Example: “Otsukaresama deshita!” after finishing kitchen duties.

23. いただきます、お願いします！ (Itadakimasu, onegaishimasu!) – ee-tah-dah-kee-mah-su, oh-neh-gai-shee-mah-su (ee-tah-dah-kee-mah-su, oh-neh-gai-shee-mah-su)

This is a playful, casual combo meaning “I humbly receive, please (let’s eat)!”

“Onegaishimasu” adds a friendly “please” or “let’s do it” vibe.

Great for encouraging a fun, relaxed meal atmosphere.

It’s informal but polite enough for friends.

Example: Saying “Itadakimasu, onegaishimasu!” before digging in at a casual gathering.

It’s a lively way to kick off a meal with enthusiasm.

24. ごちそうさま！ (Gochisousama!) – goh-chee-soh-sah-mah (goh-chee-soh-sah-mah)

This is the very casual, shortened form of “gochisousama deshita.”

It’s perfect among close friends or family when you want to quickly say thanks after eating.

Short and sweet, it’s easy to remember and use daily.

Use it to sound friendly and natural without being too formal.

Common mistake: using casual form in formal settings can be inappropriate.

Example: “Gochisousama!” after finishing a home-cooked meal with friends.

Concluding Thought

Learning these 24 essential Japanese phrases for mealtime prep and thanks is a wonderful way to connect with culture and people.

Each phrase carries respect, warmth, and appreciation, making your dining experiences more meaningful.

So go ahead, practice them with confidence, and enjoy the delicious journey of language and food combined!