約束の場所は
約束の場所は en 30 segundos
- Identifies a previously agreed-upon meeting spot.
- Combines 'promise' (yakusoku) and 'place' (basho).
- Used as a topic marker to clarify or confirm locations.
- Common in daily life, business, and Japanese media tropes.
The phrase 約束の場所は (Yakusoku no basho wa) is a foundational yet deeply evocative Japanese expression used to identify a specific location that has been previously agreed upon by two or more parties. At its core, it translates to "As for the promised place" or "The meeting place is..." This phrase is not merely a logistical pointer; it carries the weight of a commitment made between individuals. In Japanese culture, where punctuality and reliability are paramount, referencing the 'promised place' serves as a linguistic anchor for social harmony and mutual trust. Whether you are meeting a friend for coffee, a colleague for a business lunch, or a partner for a date, this phrase acts as the topic marker that sets the stage for the rest of the sentence, usually followed by the specific name of the location or a clarifying question about it.
- Etymological Breakdown
- The word 約束 (Yakusoku) combines 'yaku' (to bind/tighten) and 'soku' (bundle/restrain), essentially meaning a binding agreement. 場所 (Basho) refers to a physical spot or location. The particle の (no) links them to mean 'the place of the promise,' and は (wa) establishes this as the topic of conversation.
In everyday conversation, you will hear this phrase most frequently when confirming plans. For example, after a long discussion about where to meet in a crowded area like Shinjuku Station, one might say, "So, the promised place is the East Exit, right?" (約束の場所は東口ですね?). This usage clarifies any potential ambiguity, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. The phrase is also heavily utilized in Japanese media, particularly in romance and mystery genres. In these contexts, the 'promised place' often takes on a more sentimental or dramatic meaning—a spot where two characters vowed to meet again after many years, or the secret location where a pivotal event is set to occur. This duality between mundane logistical use and high-stakes narrative use makes it a versatile tool for any learner to master.
A: 明日の集合はどうしますか? (What about tomorrow's gathering?)
B: 約束の場所は、いつものカフェにしましょう。 (As for the promised place, let's make it the usual cafe.)
Furthermore, the use of wa (は) instead of ga (が) here is crucial. By using wa, the speaker is highlighting 'the promised place' as the known topic that everyone is already thinking about, and then providing new information about it (e.g., that it is the cafe). If one were to use ga, it would sound more like they are identifying which place among many is the promised one, which is less common in standard confirmation scenarios. Understanding this subtle grammatical nuance helps learners sound more natural and less like they are translating directly from English. In summary, this phrase is the bridge between a plan made in the past and its execution in the present, serving as a vital component of Japanese social interaction and storytelling alike.
Using 約束の場所は effectively requires an understanding of the Japanese topic-comment structure. Because wa marks the topic, the speaker is essentially saying, "Regarding the place we agreed upon..." This is followed by the 'comment' which provides the specific details. The most common pattern is [Topic] + [Location] + [Verb/Copula]. For beginners, the simplest form is 約束の場所は[Place]です. This is the gold standard for confirming a meeting spot. For example, "約束の場所はハチ公前です" (The promised place is in front of Hachiko).
- Common Sentence Pattern 1: Confirmation
- [約束の場所は] + [Location] + [ですね/ですか?]
Example: 約束の場所はここでいいですか? (Is the promised place okay here?)
As you progress to intermediate levels (B1 and above), you can start using the phrase in more complex structures. You might use it to explain a change in plans or to express a sentiment. For instance, "約束の場所は少し遠いですが、とても綺麗です" (The promised place is a bit far, but it is very beautiful). Here, the topic is still the meeting place, but the comment provides two descriptive clauses. This allows for more nuanced communication beyond simple identification. It is also common to see this phrase used in the negative to correct a misunderstanding: "いいえ、約束の場所はそこではありません" (No, the promised place is not there).
「約束の場所は、私たちが初めて会ったあの公園だよ。」
(The promised place is that park where we first met.)
In literary or highly formal Japanese, the phrase can be expanded with modifiers. You might see あの日約束した場所は (The place we promised on 그날/that day is...). This adds a temporal layer to the noun phrase, making the sentence more descriptive and emotionally resonant. In business contexts, the phrase might be slightly modified to 本日の打ち合わせの場所は (As for the location of today's meeting...), but 約束の場所 remains a valid, if slightly more personal, way to refer to an appointment location. Remember that the topic marker wa can also imply a contrast. If you say "約束の場所は駅ですが、時間はまだ決まっていません" (The promised place is the station, but the time hasn't been decided yet), you are contrasting the certainty of the location with the uncertainty of the time.
You will encounter 約束の場所は in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from the mundane to the cinematic. In daily life, the most common place is over the phone or via messaging apps like LINE. When two people are trying to find each other in a busy area, one might text, "約束の場所はどこ?" (Where is the promised place?). This is a quick way to ask for a location pin or a description of the surroundings. It is also frequently heard in train stations, particularly at major hubs like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Osaka Station, where people often make 'promises' to meet at specific landmarks.
- Scenario: The Busy Station
- Person A: 「ごめん、迷った!約束の場所はどこだっけ?」 (Sorry, I'm lost! Where was the promised place again?)
Person B: 「改札を出てすぐの時計台の下だよ。」 (It's under the clock tower right after you exit the ticket gate.)
Beyond daily logistics, this phrase is a staple of Japanese pop culture. In anime and manga, the "promised place" is a recurring trope. Think of Makoto Shinkai's film The Place Promised in Our Early Days (雲のむこう、約束の場所 - Kumo no Mukou, Yakusoku no Basho). In these stories, the phrase often refers to a location that holds deep nostalgic or destiny-bound significance. It’s the place where childhood friends promised to reunite as adults, or where a hero must go to fulfill their fate. Hearing this phrase in a dramatic soundtrack-heavy scene usually signals a climax or a moment of deep emotional realization. For a learner, recognizing this phrase in media helps bridge the gap between 'textbook Japanese' and 'emotional Japanese.'
Narrator: 「十年後、彼らが向かったのは、あの約束の場所は...」
(Ten years later, where they headed was that promised place...)
In professional settings, while 'meeting location' (会議室 - kaigishitsu or 待ち合わせ場所 - machiawase basho) is common, 約束の場所 can be used when referring back to a previously settled agreement in a slightly more formal or respectful tone. For example, a concierge at a hotel might say, "お客様、約束の場所はこちらでございます" (Customer, the promised place [for your meeting/pickup] is here). This adds a layer of service-oriented politeness, acknowledging the customer's prior arrangement. Whether in the chaos of a commute or the quiet intensity of a novel, this phrase is a constant presence in the Japanese linguistic landscape.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 約束の場所は is omitting the particle no (の). In English, we can say "promise place," but in Japanese, you must link the two nouns with no to show the relationship. Saying "約束場所は" (Yakusoku basho wa) sounds like a compound noun that doesn't quite exist in standard Japanese and feels 'clunky' or 'broken' to a native speaker. Always remember: [Noun 1] + の + [Noun 2].
- Mistake: Particle Omission
- Incorrect: 約束場所はどこですか? (Yakusoku basho wa...)
Correct: 約束の場所はどこですか? (Yakusoku no basho wa...)
Another common error is confusing basho (場所) with tokoro (所). While both mean "place," basho is generally used for a specific, physical location or a spot on a map. Tokoro is more abstract and can refer to a point in time, a part of something, or a general area. When you have an appointment, you are meeting at a specific basho. Using 約束の所は (Yakusoku no tokoro wa) isn't necessarily grammatically wrong, but it sounds vague and less natural in the context of a meeting. Stick to basho for physical appointments.
Mistake: Confusing with 'Yotei' (Schedule)
Incorrect: 約束の場所は3時です。 (The promised place is 3 o'clock.)
Correct: 約束の時間は3時です。 (The promised time is 3 o'clock.)
Learners also sometimes struggle with the particle wa (は) versus ga (が). As mentioned before, wa is for the topic. If you use ga, as in "約束の場所が駅です," it sounds like you are answering the question "Which place is the promised one?" rather than stating a fact about the meeting. While ga has its uses, wa is the default for 90% of situations where you are confirming or describing the location. Lastly, be careful not to confuse yakusoku (promise/appointment) with yotei (plan/schedule). While related, yotei is more about your personal calendar, whereas yakusoku implies a social contract with another person. You wouldn't say "Yotei no basho" unless you were talking about a scheduled event location, which is much more formal and less personal than yakusoku.
While 約束の場所は is a beautiful and clear phrase, there are several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific nature of the meeting. The most common synonym in casual daily life is 待ち合わせ場所は (Machiawase basho wa). Machiawase specifically refers to the act of meeting up with someone. This is the phrase you will hear most often among friends. If yakusoku sounds a bit heavy or formal, machiawase is your safe, everyday alternative.
- Comparison: Yakusoku vs. Machiawase
- 約束の場所: Implies a 'promise' or a set appointment. Can be emotional or formal.
待ち合わせ場所: Specifically for 'meeting up'. Very common and practical for friends.
For group settings, such as a school trip or a company outing, the term 集合場所は (Shuugo basho wa) is used. Shuugo means 'gathering' or 'assembly.' This is the term a tour guide or a team leader would use. It sounds more organized and collective than the individualistic yakusoku. If you are meeting twenty people at the airport, you are definitely at the shuugo basho, not just a yakusoku no basho.
Formal Alternative: 「開催場所は、本社会議室でございます。」
(The venue [place of holding] is the headquarters meeting room.)
In business contexts, you might use 面談の場所 (Mendan no basho - place of interview/meeting) or 打ち合わせの場所 (Uchiawase no basho - place of business meeting). These specify the *type* of meeting taking place. Finally, in very poetic or dramatic contexts, you might encounter 契りの地 (Chigiri no chi - land of the vow), though this is archaic and strictly for historical dramas or fantasy novels. Understanding these variations allows you to tailor your Japanese to the specific social environment you are in, moving from the personal 'promise' to the professional 'venue' with ease.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
In ancient Japan, 'yakusoku' didn't just mean a simple meeting; it often referred to a solemn vow or a contract. The use of 'basho' to mean a specific meeting point became more common as urban centers like Edo (Tokyo) grew and people needed precise locations to find each other.
Guía de pronunciación
- Pronouncing the 'u' in 'yakusoku' too strongly (it should be nearly silent).
- Stressing the 'wa' like an English 'WAS' (it should be a light topic marker).
- Mispronouncing 'basho' as 'bash-oh' (the 'o' should be short).
- Linking 'yakusoku' and 'basho' without the 'no' pause.
- Using a rising intonation on 'wa' when it's not a question.
Nivel de dificultad
Requires knowledge of kanji for 'Yakusoku' and 'Basho', which are common but have several strokes.
Writing '約束' (Yakusoku) correctly requires practice with the 'thread' radical.
The pronunciation is straightforward, though the devoiced 'u' in 'yakusoku' needs attention.
Easy to recognize in context, especially with the 'wa' particle.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Noun + の + Noun
約束の場所 (Place of the promise)
Topic Marker 'は'
場所は駅です (The place is the station)
Question Word 'どこ'
場所はどこですか? (Where is the place?)
Relative Clauses
昨日決めた約束の場所 (The promised place we decided yesterday)
Copula 'です/だ'
約束の場所はここだ (The promised place is here)
Ejemplos por nivel
約束の場所はどこですか?
Where is the promised place?
Basic question structure using 'doko desu ka'.
約束の場所は駅です。
The promised place is the station.
Simple A is B structure.
約束の場所はあそこです。
The promised place is over there.
Using the demonstrative 'asoko'.
約束の場所は公園です。
The promised place is the park.
Identifying a common location.
約束の場所はここですか?
Is the promised place here?
Asking for confirmation with 'koko'.
約束の場所はレストランです。
The promised place is a restaurant.
Noun + desu.
約束の場所はデパートの前です。
The promised place is in front of the department store.
Using 'no mae' to indicate position.
約束の場所は学校です。
The promised place is the school.
Basic vocabulary 'gakkou'.
約束の場所は、あの青いビルです。
The promised place is that blue building.
Using an adjective 'aoi' to describe the location.
約束の場所は、北口の近くです。
The promised place is near the North Exit.
Using 'chikaku' for proximity.
約束の場所は、静かなカフェにしましょう。
Let's make the promised place a quiet cafe.
Using 'ni shimashou' for making a suggestion.
約束の場所は、昨日と同じ所です。
The promised place is the same spot as yesterday.
Using 'onaji' (same) and 'kinou' (yesterday).
約束の場所は、まだ決まっていません。
The promised place hasn't been decided yet.
Using the negative 'te-imasen' form.
約束の場所は、とても分かりにくいです。
The promised place is very hard to find.
Using the 'verb stem + nikui' construction.
約束の場所は、あそこの時計台の下です。
The promised place is under that clock tower over there.
Combining 'asoko' and 'no shita'.
約束の場所は、歩いて5分くらいです。
The promised place is about a 5-minute walk.
Using 'aruite' (walking) and 'kurai' (about).
約束の場所は、メールで送った地図の通りです。
The promised place is exactly as shown on the map I sent by email.
Using 'no toori' (as/according to).
約束の場所は、雨が降ったら変更しましょう。
Let's change the promised place if it rains.
Using the conditional 'tara' form.
約束の場所は、彼が指定したレストランでした。
The promised place was the restaurant he specified.
Using a relative clause 'kare ga shitei shita'.
約束の場所は、分かりやすいように駅の改札にしました。
I made the promised place the station gate so it would be easy to find.
Using 'you ni' to express purpose.
約束の場所は、少し遠いけれど、行く価値があります。
The promised place is a bit far, but it's worth going.
Using 'keredo' (but) and 'kachi ga aru' (worth it).
約束の場所は、私たちが最初に出会った場所です。
The promised place is the place where we first met.
Using a past-tense relative clause.
約束の場所は、混んでいる可能性が高いです。
There is a high possibility that the promised place is crowded.
Using 'kanousei ga takai' (high possibility).
約束の場所は、もう一度確認しておいたほうがいいですよ。
You should check the promised place one more time.
Using 'hou ga ii' for advice.
約束の場所は、都会の喧騒から離れた静かな隠れ家です。
The promised place is a quiet hideaway away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Using descriptive, higher-level vocabulary like 'kensou' (hustle and bustle).
約束の場所は、お互いの中間地点に設定するのが公平でしょう。
It would be fair to set the promised place at a midpoint between us.
Using 'no ga kouhei' (is fair) and 'chuukan chiten' (midpoint).
約束の場所は、あの日、私たちが交わした誓いの地です。
The promised place is the land of the vow we made that day.
Using poetic language like 'chigiri no chi' (land of the vow).
約束の場所は、交通の便を考慮して選ぶべきでした。
We should have chosen the promised place considering the convenience of transportation.
Using 'beki deshita' (should have) and 'kouryo shite' (considering).
約束の場所は、たとえ嵐になろうとも、私は向かいます。
Even if there is a storm, I will head to the promised place.
Using 'tatoe... narou tomo' (even if... happens).
約束の場所は、意外にも歴史的な背景を持つ古い寺院でした。
Surprisingly, the promised place was an old temple with a historical background.
Using 'igai ni mo' (surprisingly) and 'rekishiteki haikei' (historical background).
約束の場所は、誰にも邪魔されない二人だけの秘密の場所です。
The promised place is a secret place just for the two of us, where no one will disturb us.
Using 'jama sarenai' (not disturbed) and 'himitsu no basho' (secret place).
約束の場所は、今の状況では変更せざるを得ません。
Under the current circumstances, we have no choice but to change the promised place.
Using the formal 'sezaru wo emasen' (have no choice but to).
約束の場所は、単なる地理的な地点ではなく、私たちの絆の象徴なのです。
The promised place is not just a geographical point, but a symbol of our bond.
Using 'tannaru... dewa naku' (not merely... but).
約束の場所は、時代と共にその姿を変えてしまいましたが、記憶の中では鮮明です。
The promised place has changed its appearance with the times, but it remains vivid in my memory.
Using 'jidai to tomo ni' (along with the times).
約束の場所は、かつての栄華を物語る廃墟の中にひっそりと佇んでいました。
The promised place stood quietly amidst the ruins that told of former glory.
Using literary verbs like 'tatazumu' (to stand/loiter) and 'monogataru' (to tell/narrate).
約束の場所は、我々が目指すべき理想郷のメタファーに他なりません。
The promised place is nothing other than a metaphor for the utopia we should aim for.
Using 'ni hoka narimasen' (nothing other than).
約束の場所は、運命の糸に導かれるようにして、ようやく辿り着いた場所でした。
The promised place was where I finally arrived, as if guided by the red thread of fate.
Using 'unmei no ito' (thread of fate) and 'tadoritsuku' (to finally reach).
約束の場所は、言葉では言い表せないほどの静寂に包まれていました。
The promised place was enveloped in a silence that words cannot describe.
Using 'kotoba dewa iiarawasenai' (indescribable).
約束の場所は、再会の喜びと、別れの悲しみが交錯する舞台となりました。
The promised place became a stage where the joy of reunion and the sadness of parting intersected.
Using 'kousaku suru' (to intersect/mix).
約束の場所は、彼が遺した最後の手がかりを解く鍵を握っていました。
The promised place held the key to solving the last clue he left behind.
Using 'kagi wo nigiru' (to hold the key).
約束の場所は、実存的な問いに対する、彼なりの最終的な回答だったのかもしれない。
The promised place might have been his final answer to an existential question.
Using 'jitsuzonteki na toi' (existential question).
約束の場所は、主観的な記憶と客観的な現実が乖離する、危うい境界線上に位置していた。
The promised place was located on a precarious boundary where subjective memory and objective reality diverge.
Using 'kairi suru' (to diverge/estrange) and 'kyoukaisen' (boundary).
約束の場所は、幾多の歳月を経て、もはや神話的な意味合いを帯びるに至った。
After many years, the promised place has come to take on a mythical significance.
Using 'ni itatta' (reached the point of) and 'imi-ai wo obiru' (to take on a meaning).
約束の場所は、沈黙の中にのみ存在する、語り得ぬ真理の隠れ家であった。
The promised place was a sanctuary of unspeakable truth that exists only in silence.
Using 'katari-enu' (unspeakable/unutterable).
約束の場所は、社会的な規範からの逸脱を許容する、唯一の聖域であったと言えよう。
One could say that the promised place was the only sanctuary that allowed for deviation from social norms.
Using 'itsu-datsu wo kyouryou suru' (allow deviation) and 'sei-iki' (sanctuary).
約束の場所は、過去の亡霊たちが囁き合う、時間から切り離された空間であった。
The promised place was a space detached from time, where ghosts of the past whispered to each other.
Using 'kiri-hanasareta' (detached/separated).
約束の場所は、自己のアイデンティティを再構築するための、不可欠な原風景であった。
The promised place was an indispensable primal landscape for reconstructing one's identity.
Using 'gen-fuukei' (primal landscape) and 'saikouchiku' (reconstruction).
約束の場所は、逆説的にも、到達した瞬間にその意味を喪失する運命にあった。
Paradoxically, the promised place was destined to lose its meaning the moment it was reached.
Using 'gyakusetsu-teki ni mo' (paradoxically) and 'soushitsu suru' (to lose).
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— A polite way to ask for the meeting location. Used when you've forgotten or need clarification.
すみません、今日の約束の場所はどこですか?
— Asking for confirmation if the current spot is acceptable as the meeting place.
約束の場所はここでいいですか?それとも中に入りますか?
— A standard way to define the meeting spot at a station gate.
約束の場所は駅の改札にしましょう。
— Confirming that you have understood where the meeting place is.
はい、約束の場所は分かりました。すぐに向かいます。
— Informing someone that the previously agreed-upon spot has been changed.
申し訳ありませんが、約束の場所は変更されました。
— Warning someone that the meeting spot might take some time to reach.
約束の場所は少し遠いので、タクシーで行きましょう。
— Pointing out the meeting spot to someone nearby.
見て、約束の場所はあそこの赤い看板の下だよ。
— Playfully telling someone the location is a secret (e.g., for a surprise).
約束の場所はまだ内緒。着いてからのお楽しみ。
— Asking if the meeting location has been finalized yet.
明日の約束の場所は決まりましたか?
— Asking if the meeting spot is a safe or appropriate environment.
夜遅いですが、約束の場所は安全ですか?
Se confunde a menudo con
More specific to 'meeting up'. 'Yakusoku no basho' is broader and can be more formal or emotional.
Used for groups. 'Yakusoku no basho' is usually for individuals or small groups.
Sounds more like a 'scheduled venue' for an event, less personal than 'yakusoku'.
Modismos y expresiones
— To wait at the agreed-upon spot. Implies reliability.
私はずっと約束の場所で待っていました。
Neutral— To forget the meeting spot. Often used as an apology.
うっかりして約束の場所を忘れてしまいました。
Neutral— To go to the wrong meeting place (archaic/formal).
どうやら約束の場所を違えてしまったようだ。
Formal/Literary— To finally reach the meeting spot after effort.
迷いながらも、ようやく約束の場所に辿り着いた。
Neutral— To be unable to recall the meeting spot.
どうしても約束の場所が思い出せなくて困っている。
Neutral— To hurry to the meeting spot.
遅刻しそうなので、約束の場所へ急ぎます。
Neutral— To reunite at the agreed-upon spot (often sentimental).
十年後、私たちは約束の場所で再会した。
Literary— To find out or locate the secret meeting spot.
探偵はついに約束の場所を突き止めた。
Neutral— To leave the meeting spot.
彼は寂しそうに約束の場所を後にした。
Literary— To share the same meeting spot (implies shared destiny).
運命によって、私たちは約束の場所を共にした。
PoeticFácil de confundir
Both mean 'place'.
Basho is for a specific physical spot. Tokoro is more general or abstract.
約束の場所 (Correct) vs 約束の所 (Vague).
Both involve 'appointments'.
Yakusoku is a promise to a person. Yoyaku is a reservation for a service (hotel, restaurant).
友達と約束する (Promise a friend) vs ホテルを予約する (Reserve a hotel).
Both mark subjects/topics.
Wa marks the known topic. Ga marks new or emphasized information.
約束の場所はここです (Topic) vs ここが約束の場所です (Emphasis on 'here').
Both describe locations.
Mae is 'in front of'. Chikaku is 'near'.
駅の前 (In front of the station) vs 駅の近く (Near the station).
Both mean 'where'.
Doko is neutral. Dochira is formal/polite.
場所はどこ? (Casual) vs 場所はどちらですか? (Formal).
Patrones de oraciones
約束の場所は[Place]です。
約束の場所は駅です。
約束の場所は[Place]の[Position]です。
約束の場所は駅の前です。
約束の場所は[Verb-Plain]ところです。
約束の場所は昨日話したところです。
約束の場所は[Adjective]です。
約束の場所は少し遠いです。
約束の場所は[Clause]ので、[Action]。
約束の場所は混んでいるので、早く行きましょう。
約束の場所は[Noun]に設定しました。
約束の場所は公園に設定しました。
約束の場所は[Noun]に他ならない。
約束の場所は思い出の地に他ならない。
約束の場所は[Abstract Noun]の象徴である。
約束の場所は友情の象徴である。
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Common in both spoken and written Japanese.
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約束場所はどこですか?
→
約束の場所はどこですか?
Missing the 'no' particle. In Japanese, two nouns must be linked by 'no' to show a relationship.
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約束の場所は3時です。
→
約束の時間は3時です。
Confusing 'place' (basho) with 'time' (jikan). You cannot say a place is a time.
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約束の所はどこですか?
→
約束の場所はどこですか?
Using 'tokoro' instead of 'basho'. While 'tokoro' means place, 'basho' is much more natural for a specific meeting spot.
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予約の場所はどこですか?
→
約束の場所はどこですか?
Confusing 'yoyaku' (reservation) with 'yakusoku' (promise/appointment). 'Yoyaku' is for hotels/restaurants.
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約束の場所が駅です。
→
約束の場所は駅です。
Using 'ga' instead of 'wa'. 'Wa' is the standard topic marker for confirming a known meeting spot.
Consejos
Don't forget the 'No'
Always link 'Yakusoku' and 'Basho' with 'no'. It's the glue that holds the phrase together. Without it, the phrase falls apart.
Be Precise
In Japan, 'the station' is often too vague. Try to specify an exit (e.g., 'Higashiguchi' - East Exit) to make the 'promised place' truly useful.
Softening the Tone
Adding 'ne' at the end (Yakusoku no basho wa eki desu ne?) makes you sound more collaborative and polite, as if you're seeking agreement.
Listen for 'Doko'
If you hear 'Yakusoku no basho wa...' followed by a rising 'doko?', someone is asking you where the meeting spot is. Be ready with a location!
Kanji Practice
Practice writing '場所' (Basho). The first kanji '場' has the 'earth' radical on the left, which helps you remember it's a physical place.
Learn 'Machiawase'
While learning this phrase, also learn 'Machiawase'. It's the more common, casual brother of 'Yakusoku' for daily meetups.
The Weight of the Word
Using 'Yakusoku' implies a certain level of seriousness. Use it when you want to emphasize that the meeting is a set commitment.
Topic Marker Nuance
Remember that 'wa' sets the stage. Everything that follows 'wa' is the new, important information you are sharing about the place.
Anime Trope Alert
When you hear this in anime, pay attention! It usually means something important is about to happen at that location.
Pitch Accent
Try to keep your pitch relatively flat after the initial rise in 'Yakusoku'. Japanese doesn't have the heavy stress-accents of English.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
YAKU (Yuck, I'm late!) + SOKU (So cool, I found it!) + NO + BASHO (Bash the show - meet at the show!). The promised place is where you 'Bash the show'.
Asociación visual
Imagine a red string (fate/promise) tied to a specific pin on a map (place). The string is the 'no' linking them.
Word Web
Desafío
Try to use 'Yakusoku no basho wa' in a sentence describing your favorite cafe to a friend. Then, try to ask a question using it.
Origen de la palabra
The phrase is a combination of two Sino-Japanese (Kango) words. 'Yakusoku' (約束) originates from Middle Chinese, where 'yaku' meant to bind and 'soku' meant a bundle. 'Basho' (場所) is also Kango, with 'ba' meaning 'place/scene' and 'sho' meaning 'spot/location'.
Significado original: A binding agreement regarding a specific spot.
Sino-Japanese (Kango) with Japanese particles.Contexto cultural
Be careful using 'yakusoku' for very casual, last-minute hangouts; 'machiawase' is usually better to avoid sounding too heavy or dramatic.
In English, we often just say 'The meeting spot' or 'Where we're meeting.' The Japanese phrase feels slightly more formal and emphasizes the 'agreement' aspect.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Meeting a friend
- 約束の場所はどこ?
- 駅の改札が約束の場所だよ。
- 約束の場所で待ってるね。
- 約束の場所、変えてもいい?
Business appointment
- 約束の場所は貴社の受付でよろしいでしょうか?
- 約束の場所は第2ビルになります。
- 約束の場所を確認させてください。
- 約束の場所へは徒歩で向かいます。
Romantic date
- 約束の場所は、初めてデートしたあの場所だよ。
- 約束の場所で君を待っている。
- 約束の場所は内緒のレストラン。
- 二人の約束の場所に行こう。
Travel/Tourism
- ツアーの約束の場所はロビーです。
- 約束の場所を地図で教えてください。
- 約束の場所にバスが来ます。
- 約束の場所は分かりやすいですか?
Anime/Manga Storytelling
- あの日、約束の場所で...
- 約束の場所へ、必ず行く。
- ここが、僕たちの約束の場所だ。
- 約束の場所は、もう存在しない。
Inicios de conversación
"今日の約束の場所は、どこにしましょうか?"
"約束の場所は、駅の近くのカフェでいいですか?"
"約束の場所が分からなくなってしまったのですが、教えてもらえますか?"
"約束の場所は、雨が降ったらどうしますか?"
"約束の場所は、少し混んでいるかもしれませんが大丈夫ですか?"
Temas para diario
あなたにとって、大切な「約束の場所」はどこですか?その理由も書いてください。
友達と会うとき、いつも「約束の場所」をどうやって決めていますか?
もし「約束の場所」に相手が来なかったら、あなたはどうしますか?
子供の頃、秘密の「約束の場所」はありましたか?どんな場所でしたか?
映画やアニメに出てくる「約束の場所」で、一番印象に残っているものは何ですか?
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasNo, it sounds unnatural. You must use the particle 'no' to link the two nouns: 'Yakusoku no basho'. This is a basic rule of Japanese grammar for noun-noun relationships.
It's not 'too' formal, but 'Machiawase basho' is more common in casual settings. Using 'Yakusoku no basho' with friends is perfectly fine and can sometimes add a nice sense of importance to the meeting.
'Basho' refers to a specific spot (like a cafe). 'Chi' means 'land' or 'ground' and is much more dramatic or poetic, often used in fantasy or historical contexts (e.g., 'The Promised Land').
You should say 'Yakusoku no basho wa doko desu ka?' or even more politely, 'O-yakusoku no basho wa dochira desu ka?' adding the honorific 'o' and using 'dochira'.
Yes, but 'Uchiawase no basho' (place for the business meeting) or 'Kaigi no basho' (place for the conference) might be more precise. However, 'Yakusoku no basho' is still understood and acceptable.
If you mean a 'place' in a book or a 'place' in your heart, 'tokoro' is usually better. 'Basho' almost always implies a physical, geographical coordinate.
'Wa' is used because 'the promised place' is the topic you are both already aware of. You are now providing the 'comment' (where it is). 'Ga' would be used if you were identifying which place is the promised one.
Generally, yes. You make a 'yakusoku' with a person. You make a 'yoyaku' (reservation) with a business or for a seat/room.
Yes! That means 'The promised place is inside the station.' Adding 'no naka' (inside) is a great way to be more specific.
You say 'Yakusoku no basho wa kawarimashita.' This is a very useful phrase if you need to update your plans.
Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas
Write 'The promised place is the station' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Where is the promised place?' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'The promised place is in front of the park' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Let's make the promised place a cafe' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'The promised place has changed' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'The promised place is a bit far' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is where we first met' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is a quiet hideaway' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is the land of our vow' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is a symbol of our bond' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place remains vivid in my memory' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place was an existential answer' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is the usual spot' in Japanese.
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Write 'Is the promised place here?' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is near the North Exit' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place hasn't been decided yet' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is the restaurant he specified' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is worth going' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is a secret' in Japanese.
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Write 'The promised place is under the clock tower' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say 'The promised place is the station' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Ask 'Where is the promised place?' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is in front of the cafe' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is the usual spot' in Japanese.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place has changed' in Japanese.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is a bit far' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is where we first met' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is a quiet hideaway' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is a symbol of our bond' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place was an existential answer' in Japanese.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is here' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is near the North Exit' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'Let's make the promised place a restaurant' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place hasn't been decided yet' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is under the clock tower' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is exactly as shown on the map' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is worth going' in Japanese.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is a secret' in Japanese.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is about a 5-minute walk' in Japanese.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'The promised place is the same spot as yesterday' in Japanese.
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Dijiste:
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Listen and identify the location: 「約束の場所は、駅の東口です。」
Listen and identify the location: 「約束の場所は、あそこの公園の前です。」
Listen and identify the status: 「約束の場所は、まだ決まっていません。」
Listen and identify the change: 「約束の場所は、カフェからレストランに変更になりました。」
Listen and identify the reason: 「約束の場所は少し遠いですが、景色が綺麗です。」
Listen and identify the location: 「約束の場所は、北口の時計台の下です。」
Listen and identify the location: 「約束の場所は、いつものところです。」
Listen and identify the location: 「約束の場所は、メールで送った地図の通りです。」
Listen and identify the location: 「約束の場所は、私たちが初めて会った場所です。」
Listen and identify the location: 「約束の場所は、都会の喧騒から離れた隠れ家です。」
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The phrase '約束の場所は' is your go-to expression for confirming where you're supposed to meet someone. Example: '約束の場所はハチ公前です' (The promised place is in front of Hachiko). It turns a vague plan into a clear, shared topic.
- Identifies a previously agreed-upon meeting spot.
- Combines 'promise' (yakusoku) and 'place' (basho).
- Used as a topic marker to clarify or confirm locations.
- Common in daily life, business, and Japanese media tropes.
Don't forget the 'No'
Always link 'Yakusoku' and 'Basho' with 'no'. It's the glue that holds the phrase together. Without it, the phrase falls apart.
Be Precise
In Japan, 'the station' is often too vague. Try to specify an exit (e.g., 'Higashiguchi' - East Exit) to make the 'promised place' truly useful.
Softening the Tone
Adding 'ne' at the end (Yakusoku no basho wa eki desu ne?) makes you sound more collaborative and polite, as if you're seeking agreement.
Listen for 'Doko'
If you hear 'Yakusoku no basho wa...' followed by a rising 'doko?', someone is asking you where the meeting spot is. Be ready with a location!