Yoroshiku-Onegaishimasu—Another Japanese Word that English Needs

Summary

The article discusses the nuanced Japanese phrase "Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu," which conveys a combination of "please," "thank you," and an anticipation of future harmonious interactions, and argues for its inclusion in the English lexicon.

Abstract

The concept of "Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu" is presented as a multifaceted expression that extends beyond the simple English equivalents of "please" and "thank you." It is commonly used in Japan during initial meetings and when requesting favors, encapsulating a sense of mutual respect and gratitude, as well as a forward-looking acknowledgment of reciprocal support. The phrase is rooted in the cultural expectation of future interactions being positive and cooperative. The author, Diane Neill Tincher, suggests that the depth and complexity of "Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu" could enrich the English language by providing a more nuanced way to express these sentiments. Additionally, Tincher invites readers to become Medium members through her referral link, which supports writers financially.

Opinions

The author believes that "Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu" is a phrase that English speakers could benefit from adopting due to its rich connotations.
Tincher implies that the English phrase "Please and thank you," popularized by the character Ron Swanson in "Parks and Recreation," does not fully capture the essence of "Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu."
The article conveys that "Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu" is not just a polite expression but also a cultural symbol of the mutual obligations and harmony valued in Japanese society.
The author's use of a humorous TV reference followed by a deeper explanation suggests an attempt to bridge cultural understanding in an accessible way.
Tincher's inclusion of a referral link to Medium indicates her opinion that quality writing should be supported and that readers can contribute to this ecosystem by becoming members.

“Please and thank you” is just not commonly used

The closest English translation that I can think of for yoroshiku-onegaishimasu is the expression used by Ron Swanson’s character in the American TV series, Parks and Recreation, “Please and thank you.”

Naturally, there is more to it than that.

Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu! (Image courtesy of irasutoya.)

Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu (pronounced yo-ro-she-ku — oh-neh-guy-she-mäs)

Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu is used when you first meet a person. It expresses “please and thank you” for any and all future give-and-take interactions, and it is accompanied with a bow. There is the understanding that one will inevitably ask a favor of the other and vice versa. It’s akin to saying, “May all our interactions be harmonious.”

The other main usage is when asking someone for a favor or for help, when it is a “please — and thank you in advance,” à la Ron Swanson.

In short, yoroshiku-onegaishimasu conveys both a sense of reciprocal gratitude and future thanks.

So, to you, kind readers, for this and all future reading, “Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu!”

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For more photos and information on Japan, visit my website, More Than Tokyo.

JAPANESE WORDS THAT ENGLISH NEEDS, 4

Yoroshiku-Onegaishimasu—Another Japanese Word that English Needs

“Please and thank you” is just not commonly used

Yoroshiku-onegaishimasu (pronounced yo-ro-she-ku — oh-neh-guy-she-mäs)

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