Signification
Expressing pride or satisfaction in having been able to assist.
Contexte culturel
In Japanese companies, acknowledging that your success is due to the support of others is vital. This phrase allows you to accept praise while redirecting the focus to the value of the relationship. The spirit of Omotenashi involves anticipating needs and serving with a pure heart. This phrase is the verbal realization of that spirit—finding honor in the act of service itself. Japanese has three types of Keigo. This phrase uses 'Kenjougo' (humble language) because you are describing your own action (helping) in a way that lowers yourself and honors the other person. Using overly casual language in formal settings disrupts 'Wa'. This phrase acts as a social lubricant, ensuring that professional boundaries are respected and everyone feels valued.
The 'Combo' Move
Combine this with 'Messo mo gozaimasen' (Not at all!) for a 10/10 humble response.
Avoid 'You're Welcome'
In Japan, 'Douitashimashite' is becoming rare in business. This phrase is a much more modern and professional alternative.
Signification
Expressing pride or satisfaction in having been able to assist.
The 'Combo' Move
Combine this with 'Messo mo gozaimasen' (Not at all!) for a 10/10 humble response.
Avoid 'You're Welcome'
In Japan, 'Douitashimashite' is becoming rare in business. This phrase is a much more modern and professional alternative.
Body Language
Always give a slight nod or a small bow when saying this to reinforce the sincerity of the 'honor'.
Teste-toi
Choose the most appropriate response to a client who says: '{資料|しりょう}を{送|おく}ってくれてありがとう。とても{助|たす}かりました。'
Which response is best?
Option 'a' is the correct formal response for a client. 'b' and 'c' are too casual, and 'd' uses 'ureshii yo' which is also too informal.
Complete the formal sentence.
お（ ）になれて（ ）です。
The standard set phrase is 'お力になれて光栄です'.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
Situation: You just finished a high-level project for a government official.
The ultra-formal 'zonjimasu' version is appropriate for government officials or high-ranking individuals.
Fill in the missing line in the dialogue.
Boss: '{君|きみ}のおかげで{契約|けいやく}が{取|と}れたよ。ありがとう。' You: '（ ）'
Responding to a boss's gratitude with 'O-chikara ni narete kouei desu' shows professional humility.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Formality Scale of 'I'm glad I helped'
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesWhich response is best?
Option 'a' is the correct formal response for a client. 'b' and 'c' are too casual, and 'd' uses 'ureshii yo' which is also too informal.
お（ ）になれて（ ）です。
The standard set phrase is 'お力になれて光栄です'.
Situation: You just finished a high-level project for a government official.
The ultra-formal 'zonjimasu' version is appropriate for government officials or high-ranking individuals.
Boss: '{君|きみ}のおかげで{契約|けいやく}が{取|と}れたよ。ありがとう。' You: '（ ）'
Responding to a boss's gratitude with 'O-chikara ni narete kouei desu' shows professional humility.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsUsually, yes. For a normal cafe or shop, 'O-yaku ni tatete ureshii desu' is better. Save 'Kouei' for high-end hotels or corporate offices.
Absolutely! It is one of the most common ways to close a professional email after a client thanks you.
'Kouei' is social honor/glory. 'Shiawase' is personal, internal happiness. You never use 'shiawase' in this context.
A slight 'eshaku' (15-degree bow) is very natural and recommended in person.
Yes, it is very appropriate for a student to say to a teacher, especially after a significant project.
Yes, it comes from 'nareru' (can become). It implies you were successfully able to be helpful.
Use 'O-chikara ni naretara kouei desu' (If I could be of help, it would be an honor).
Only if they are much more senior than you. With equal coworkers, it sounds a bit too stiff.
It's two long syllables: Ko-o-e-e. Don't say 'Koy'.
Using it with friends. It sounds like you are pretending to be their servant.
Expressions liées
{お役|おやく}に{立|た}てて{幸|さいわ}いです
similarI am happy to have been of use.
{恐縮|きょうしゅく}でございます
similarI am humbled/indebted.
{滅相|めっそう}もございません
builds onDon't mention it / It's nothing.
{喜|よろこ}んでいただけて{何|なに}よりです
similarI'm just glad you're happy.
