24 Must-Know Japanese Phrases for Clothes Shopping

Shopping for clothes in Japan can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you know the right phrases to use.

Whether you’re browsing trendy boutiques or department stores, mastering a handful of key Japanese expressions will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

From asking about sizes to inquiring about colors, these phrases cover all the basics you need to navigate a clothing store confidently.

Not only will they help you communicate better, but they’ll also show respect to the shop staff and enhance your cultural experience.

Learning these phrases is a small effort that pays off with big smiles and helpful assistance from the locals.

Let’s dive into 24 must-know Japanese phrases that will turn your clothes shopping into a breeze!

Getting Started: Essential Basics

Before jumping into specific phrases, it’s good to know some simple words that pop up often in stores.

Knowing how to say “size,” “color,” or “price” can quickly get you into the conversation with shop assistants.

These basics set a foundation for more detailed questions later.

Using a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.

Even just a little vocabulary can boost your confidence in any Japanese shopping situation.

Try repeating these words out loud before your trip to get comfortable with pronunciation.

Part 1: Casual Suggestions

1. これのサイズは何ですか？ (Kore no saizu wa nan desu ka?) – “What size is this?”

This phrase is a must-have for checking the size of any item you’re interested in.

Simply point to the item and say “Kore no saizu wa nan desu ka?” which breaks down to “kore (this), no (of), saizu (size), wa (topic marker), nan (what), desu ka (question).”

It’s straightforward and polite, perfect for beginners to get accurate info.

Keep this phrase handy anytime you pick up something to try on.

You might also hear “Sサイズ” (esu saizu) meaning “small size,” so listening carefully helps.

Once you get the hang of this, you’ll feel more in control while browsing sizes.

2. 色は何色がありますか？ (Iro wa nani iro ga arimasu ka?) – “What colors do you have?”

Want to know if your favorite shirt comes in other colors? Use this phrase.

It’s easy to remember since “iro” means “color,” and “nani iro” means “what color.” Just add “ga arimasu ka” to ask if something exists.

Don’t forget to listen for color names like “aka” (red) or “ao” (blue).

A common mistake is mixing up “iro” with “katachi” (shape), so focus on colors here.

Example: “このシャツの色は何色がありますか？” (Kono shatsu no iro wa nani iro ga arimasu ka?) means “What colors does this shirt have?”

Once you master this, you can explore your style choices with confidence.

3. 試着してもいいですか？ (Shichaku shite mo ii desu ka?) – “May I try this on?”

Trying on clothes is a key part of shopping, and this phrase politely asks permission to do so.

“Shichaku” means “trying on,” and “shite mo ii desu ka” is a polite way to ask “Is it okay if I do this?”

Using this phrase shows good manners and makes staff happy to assist you.

Remember, don’t just start trying on without asking first—that can be seen as rude.

Example dialogue: “このコート、試着してもいいですか？” (Kono kōto, shichaku shite mo ii desu ka?) means “May I try on this coat?”

Try practicing this phrase before your trip to sound natural and courteous.

4. いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?) – “How much is it?”

One of the most basic questions in any shopping scenario is asking the price.

“Ikura” means “how much,” and “desu ka” turns it into a polite question.

This phrase is very easy to use and understand, so it’s a great confidence booster.

A common mistake is forgetting “desu ka,” which makes the question sound abrupt or incomplete.

Example: “このジャケットはいくらですか？” (Kono jaketto wa ikura desu ka?) means “How much is this jacket?”

Once you can ask prices, you’re halfway to a smooth shopping experience.

5. 他のサイズはありますか？ (Hoka no saizu wa arimasu ka?) – “Do you have other sizes?”

This phrase helps when the size you want isn’t on display or is sold out.

“Hoka” means “other,” so you’re asking if other sizes exist for that item.

It’s a polite and effective way to check availability beyond what you see.

Don’t confuse “hoka” with “mou” (already), which is different in context.

Example: “このズボンの他のサイズはありますか？” (Kono zubon no hoka no saizu wa arimasu ka?) means “Do you have other sizes of these pants?”

Knowing this phrase can save time and help you find the perfect fit.

6. これをください。 (Kore o kudasai.) – “I’ll take this, please.”

When you’re ready to buy, this phrase seals the deal politely and clearly.

“Kore” means “this,” “o” is the object marker, and “kudasai” means “please give me.”

It’s simple and shows respect, making the transaction smooth.

Be sure not to use this phrase for asking to try items; it’s for buying.

Example: “このシャツをください。” (Kono shatsu o kudasai.) means “I’ll take this shirt, please.”

Use this phrase confidently when you’ve found your favorite piece!

7. カードで払えますか？ (Kādo de haraemasu ka?) – “Can I pay by card?”

It’s good to know how to ask about payment methods, especially if you prefer card over cash.

“Kādo” means “card,” “de” indicates the method, and “haraemasu ka” means “can I pay?”

This phrase helps avoid awkward payment moments.

Don’t assume all small shops accept cards; it’s common to ask first.

Example: “カードで払えますか？” (Kādo de haraemasu ka?) means “Can I pay by card?”

Mastering this phrase makes checkout stress-free.

8. 返品できますか？ (Henpin dekimasu ka?) – “Can I return this?”

Sometimes things don’t fit or look right, so it’s handy to ask about returns.

“Henpin” means “return of goods,” and “dekimasu ka” is “can I do?”

Knowing this phrase avoids surprises after purchase.

Be aware that many Japanese stores have strict return policies, so asking beforehand is smart.

Example: “このワンピースは返品できますか？” (Kono wanpīsu wa henpin dekimasu ka?) means “Can I return this dress?”

This phrase protects your shopping peace of mind.

Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions

9. 失礼ですが、試着室はどこですか？ (Shitsurei desu ga, shichakushitsu wa doko desu ka?) – “Excuse me, where is the fitting room?”

This phrase is a respectful way to ask where the fitting rooms are located.

“Shitsurei desu ga” is a polite preface meaning “Excuse me, but…”, “shichakushitsu” is “fitting room,” and “doko desu ka” means “where is it?”

It’s especially useful in formal department stores.

A common mistake is skipping the polite intro, which can sound abrupt.

Example: “失礼ですが、試着室はどこですか？” is perfect for polite inquiries.

Use this phrase to keep your manners sharp and interactions smooth.

10. おすすめのサイズは何ですか？ (Osusume no saizu wa nan desu ka?) – “What size do you recommend?”

When unsure about what size fits best, this phrase seeks professional advice politely.

“Osusume” means “recommendation,” so you’re asking “What size do you recommend?”

It’s a great way to get expert help without guessing.

Don’t confuse “osusume” with “onegai” (request), which is less specific.

Example: “このジャケットのおすすめのサイズは何ですか？” (Kono jaketto no osusume no saizu wa nan desu ka?)

Using this phrase can save you from picking the wrong size.

11. もっとゆったりしたのはありますか？ (Motto yuttari shita no wa arimasu ka?) – “Do you have a looser fit?”

This phrase is handy if you want clothing that’s less tight or more relaxed.

“Motto” means “more,” “yuttari shita” means “looser” or “roomier,” “no wa arimasu ka” asks “do you have?”

It shows you know your style preferences and can communicate them clearly.

Avoid confusing “yuttari” with “yukkuri” (slowly), which has a different meaning.

Example: “このズボンでもっとゆったりしたのはありますか？” means “Do you have looser pants like these?”

Try this phrase to express comfort needs politely.

12. 返品の場合、レシートは必要ですか？ (Henpin no baai, reshiito wa hitsuyō desu ka?) – “Do I need a receipt for returns?”

Clarifying return requirements is always smart before buying.

“Henpin no baai” means “in case of return,” “reshiito” is “receipt,” and “hitsuyō desu ka” is “is it necessary?”

This phrase helps you avoid misunderstandings later.

Don’t assume a receipt isn’t needed; always check first.

Example: “返品の場合、レシートは必要ですか？” is a clear way to inquire politely.

Use it to shop with confidence and clarity.

13. もう少し安いのはありますか？ (Mō sukoshi yasui no wa arimasu ka?) – “Do you have something a bit cheaper?”

If you’re watching your budget, this phrase helps you ask about lower-priced items.

“Mō sukoshi” means “a little more,” “yasui” means “cheap,” and “no wa arimasu ka” asks “do you have?”

It’s a polite and useful way to explore affordable options.

Avoid sounding demanding by keeping your tone friendly.

Example: “このコートでもう少し安いのはありますか？” means “Do you have a cheaper coat like this?”

This phrase makes budget shopping smoother and more respectful.

14. クレジットカードは使えますか？ (Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?) – “Can I use a credit card?”

This is a slightly more formal way to ask about card payments than “Kādo de haraemasu ka?”

“Kurejitto kādo” is “credit card,” and “tsukaemasu ka” means “can I use?”

It’s perfect in department stores or higher-end shops.

Don’t forget to specify the card type if needed.

Example: “クレジットカードは使えますか？” is a polite, clear question.

Keep this phrase in mind for smooth payment experiences.

15. サイズ交換はできますか？ (Saizu kōkan wa dekimasu ka?) – “Can I exchange sizes?”

Sometimes you need to swap sizes after purchase, so asking this is helpful.

“Saizu kōkan” means “size exchange,” and “dekimasu ka” is “can I do?”

It shows you’re aware of your options and polite about confirming.

Don’t assume exchanges are automatic; always ask first.

Example: “このシャツはサイズ交換はできますか？” means “Can I exchange this shirt for another size?”

Use this phrase to keep your options open without confusion.

16. ありがとうございます、とても助かりました。 (Arigatō gozaimasu, totemo tasukarimashita.) – “Thank you very much, you were very helpful.”

Ending your shopping experience with gratitude leaves a great impression.

“Arigatō gozaimasu” means “thank you very much,” and “totemo tasukarimashita” means “you really helped me.”

It’s a polite, warm phrase that shows your appreciation.

Never underestimate the power of a sincere thank you in Japanese culture.

Use this phrase to build positive connections wherever you shop.

It rounds off your visit on a friendly, respectful note.

Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions

17. これ、ちょっと大きいかな？ (Kore, chotto ōkii kana?) – “This is a bit big, huh?”

This casual phrase is great for chatting with friends or friendly shop staff.

“Chotto” means “a little,” “ōkii” means “big,” and “kana” adds a casual “I wonder” tone.

It sounds natural and relaxed, like everyday conversation.

Don’t use this in formal settings; save it for casual situations.

Example: “このシャツ、ちょっと大きいかな？” means “This shirt is a bit big, huh?”

Try using casual phrases to blend in with locals during informal shopping trips.

18. もうちょっと安くならない？ (Mō chotto yasuku naranai?) – “Can’t you make it a little cheaper?”

When bargaining is possible, this phrase is a casual way to ask for a discount.

“Mō chotto” means “a little more,” “yasuku” means “cheaper,” and “naranai?” is a casual “can’t?”

Use this only in markets or shops where bargaining is acceptable.

Avoid this phrase in formal stores to prevent awkwardness.

Example: “これ、もうちょっと安くならない？” is a friendly price ask.

Knowing when and how to negotiate adds fun to your shopping experience.

19. これ、めっちゃいい！ (Kore, meccha ii!) – “This is super good!”

This enthusiastic phrase is great for showing excitement about a find.

“Meccha” is a slang term for “very” or “super,” and “ii” means “good.”

It’s common among younger Japanese speakers and casual settings.

Use it to express genuine delight and connect naturally.

Example: “このバッグ、めっちゃいい！” means “This bag is super good!”

Feel free to sprinkle in casual slang to sound more native-like.

20. ちょっと見せて。 (Chotto misete.) – “Let me see it for a second.”

Perfect for quick and casual requests to look at an item.

“Chotto” means “a little” or “for a moment,” and “misete” is the casual form of “show me.”

It’s informal but commonly used among friends or in relaxed shops.

Remember to use polite forms in formal stores instead.

Example: “そのシャツ、ちょっと見せて。” means “Let me see that shirt for a moment.”

Use this to sound casual and friendly when appropriate.

21. サイズ合うかな？ (Saizu au kana?) – “I wonder if the size fits?”

This phrase casually expresses a bit of uncertainty about fit.

“Saizu” is “size,” “au” means “to fit,” and “kana” adds a wondering tone.

It’s a natural way to think out loud or chat with friends.

Avoid in formal settings where more polite language is expected.

Example: “このスカート、サイズ合うかな？” means “I wonder if this skirt fits?”

Try this phrase to sound more relaxed and native-like.

22. これ、返品できる？ (Kore, henpin dekiru?) – “Can I return this?” (casual)

A casual way to ask about returns when talking with friends or casual shops.

“Henpin dekiru?” means “can return?” without the formal endings.

It’s direct but suitable for informal conversations.

Use polite forms when talking to staff in bigger stores.

Example: “これ、返品できる？” means “Can I return this?”

Use casual or polite forms depending on the situation.

23. 色違いはある？ (Iro chigai wa aru?) – “Do you have other colors?” (casual)

Short and casual way to ask if other colors are available.

“Iro chigai” means “different color,” “wa aru?” means “is there?”

Great for chatting informally with friends or familiar clerks.

Use more complete phrases for formal situations.

Example: “このシャツ、色違いはある？” means “Do you have this shirt in other colors?”

Casual phrases like this add fun and ease to your shopping talks.

24. これ買うわ！ (Kore kau wa!) – “I’m buying this!” (casual, confident)

A confident and casual way to announce your purchase.

“Kore” means “this,” “kau” means “buy,” and “wa” adds a casual emphasis.

It’s common among young people or close friends.

Not suitable for formal conversations but great for casual vibes.

Example: “このジャケット、買うわ！” means “I’m buying this jacket!”

Use this phrase to express excitement with a native touch.

Concluding Thought

Learning these 24 essential Japanese phrases for clothes shopping opens new doors to cultural connection and practical ease.

From polite inquiries to casual expressions, you’re equipped to handle most shopping scenarios with confidence and respect.

So get out there, enjoy your retail adventure, and watch your language skills shine in the colorful world of Japanese fashion!