How to Use Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu Properly
"Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" (よろしくお願いします) is one of the most essential and versatile phrases in Japanese, but it's also one of the hardest for learners to translate directly into English.
Rather than having a single meaning, it conveys a sense of goodwill, trust, and polite request, depending on the context.
Whether you're meeting someone for the first time, asking for a favor, starting a job, or ending an email, mastering this phrase will help you sound more natural, respectful, and culturally aware in Japanese communication.
Use "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" Properly
1. What Does "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" Mean?
The phrase is made up of two parts:
"Yoroshiku" (よろしく) – Generally means "favorably," "well," or "kindly."
"Onegaishimasu" (お願いします) – A polite way to say "please" or "I request."
Together, "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" conveys a sense of requesting someone's goodwill, assistance, or cooperation.
Unlike English phrases such as "Nice to meet you" or "Please help me," this phrase is more flexible and is used in a variety of contexts.
2. Common Situations to Use "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu"
1. During Self-Introductions
When meeting someone for the first time, this phrase is often used to establish a positive relationship.
✅ Example:
"Hajimemashite. Tanaka desu. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu."
(はじめまして。田中です。よろしくお願いします。)
"Nice to meet you. I’m Tanaka. Please take care of me."
📌 Tip: You always say "Hajimemashite" (Nice to meet you) before "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" in introductions.
2. Asking for a Favor
When politely requesting help or cooperation from someone.
✅ Example:
"Ashita no kaigi no junbi, yoroshiku onegaishimasu."
(明日の会議の準備、よろしくお願いします。)
"Please take care of the preparations for tomorrow’s meeting."
📌 Tip: This is often used in business emails, messages, or meetings when delegating tasks.
3. Expressing Teamwork & Collaboration
Used before starting a group project, event, or activity.
✅ Example:
"Minna de issho ni ganbarimashou! Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!"
(みんなで一緒に頑張りましょう！よろしくお願いします！)
"Let’s do our best together! I look forward to working with you!"
📌 Tip: Often heard in workplaces, schools, and sports teams before starting a task.
4. Before an Upcoming Appointment or Event
Used when confirming arrangements politely.
✅ Example:
"Rai getsu no shinsatsu, yoroshiku onegaishimasu."
(来月の診察、よろしくお願いします。)
"I appreciate your care during next month’s medical appointment."
📌 Tip: Common in professional and formal settings.
5. Saying Goodbye with Appreciation
Used in emails and messages to close with goodwill.
✅ Example:
"Osewa ni narimasu. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu."
(お世話になります。よろしくお願いします。)
"Thank you for your support. I appreciate your help."
📌 Tip: Frequently used in Japanese business emails and customer service interactions.
3. Casual vs. Formal Variations
📌 Tip: The longer the phrase, the more formal it becomes.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using it at the wrong time – Don’t say "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" as a simple "thank you." It is for future expectations, not past events.
❌ Overusing it with strangers – While polite, it can sound unnatural if used excessively in formal situations where other phrases are more appropriate.
❌ Mixing it up with "Arigatou Gozaimasu" – "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" is for requests and introductions, whereas "Arigatou Gozaimasu" expresses gratitude for something already done.
When to Use "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu"
This phrase is used in a wide variety of situations, both formal and informal, and it plays a key role in establishing relationships, offering assistance, or showing appreciation. Here are some common situations where "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" comes in handy:
At the start of an interaction or introduction
When you're meeting someone new or entering into a new relationship (personal or professional), you can say "Yoroshiku onegaishimasu" to express your desire for a good relationship moving forward.When making a request or asking for a favor
If you're asking someone for help or a favor, using "Yoroshiku onegaishimasu" after the request softens the request and shows appreciation for their cooperation.At the start of a new job or project
When beginning a new project or role, saying this phrase shows that you're willing to collaborate and value the cooperation of your team or colleagues.In emails or letters
When ending an email, especially in formal or business contexts, "Yoroshiku onegaishimasu" is commonly used to politely conclude your message and express that you're looking forward to working together or receiving a response.
5. FAQs
1. Is "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" the same as "Hajimemashite"?
No. "Hajimemashite" is used only for first-time introductions, while "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" expresses future goodwill and cooperation.
2. Can I use "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" in emails?
Yes! It is commonly used in business emails to express politeness and goodwill, especially when making a request.
3. Is "Yoroshiku" rude if used alone?
Not necessarily, but it is casual. Use "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" in formal situations.
4. Can I use it to ask for help?
Yes! It’s perfect for politely requesting assistance from colleagues, teachers, or friends.
5. How do I respond to "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu"?
You can reply with:
✅ "Kochira koso yoroshiku onegaishimasu!" (こちらこそよろしくお願いします！) – "I also look forward to working with you!"
"Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu" is one of the most versatile and essential phrases in Japanese. It conveys politeness, cooperation, and future goodwill, making it useful in a wide range of social and professional interactions.
Whether you're introducing yourself, making a request, or working in a team, understanding how to use this phrase correctly will help you navigate Japanese culture and communication more smoothly.
By mastering "Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu," you'll not only sound more natural but also deepen your connections in Japanese society.
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