Meaning
A polite phrase used after self-introduction, requesting goodwill.
Cultural Background
In business, 'Yoroshiku' is often accompanied by a bow. The depth of the bow should match the level of 'Yoroshiku' used. A formal 'Onegaishimasu' requires a deeper bow than a casual 'Yoroshiku'. When moving into a new house, it is tradition to visit your neighbors (the three houses across and one on each side) with a small gift and say 'Dōzo yoroshiku'. This is called 'Hikoshi-aisatsu'. Characters often use 'Yoroshiku' to show their personality. A tough character might say 'Yoroshiku na!' while a polite character says 'Dōzo yoroshiku o-negai-itashimasu'. When sending seasonal gifts to people who have helped you, a card is often included that says 'Kongo tomo yoroshiku' (Please continue to treat me well).
The 'Likewise' Response
If someone says 'Yoroshiku' to you first, always start your response with 'Kochira koso' (Likewise). It makes you sound very fluent!
Don't be too short
Avoid saying just 'Yoro' unless you are texting a very close friend. It can sound lazy or rude otherwise.
Meaning
A polite phrase used after self-introduction, requesting goodwill.
The 'Likewise' Response
If someone says 'Yoroshiku' to you first, always start your response with 'Kochira koso' (Likewise). It makes you sound very fluent!
Don't be too short
Avoid saying just 'Yoro' unless you are texting a very close friend. It can sound lazy or rude otherwise.
The Bow
Always give a small nod or bow when saying this. It's the physical half of the phrase.
Test Yourself
Complete the self-introduction with the correct phrase.
{初|はじ}めまして、田中です。_________。
'どうぞよろしく' is the standard way to end a self-introduction.
Match the phrase variation to the correct person.
Who would you say 'よろしくお{願|ねが}いいたします' to?
The long, formal version is required for superiors like a boss.
Choose the best response for the situation.
Person A: '明日からいっしょに働きましょう！' (Let's work together from tomorrow!) Person B: 'はい、________！'
'こちらこそ' (Likewise) is the perfect partner for 'Yoroshiku' when both parties are starting a relationship.
Which of these is NOT a correct use of 'Yoroshiku'?
Identify the incorrect usage:
'Yoroshiku' is a request for a favor, not a response to gratitude.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises{初|はじ}めまして、田中です。_________。
'どうぞよろしく' is the standard way to end a self-introduction.
Who would you say 'よろしくお{願|ねが}いいたします' to?
The long, formal version is required for superiors like a boss.
Person A: '明日からいっしょに働きましょう！' (Let's work together from tomorrow!) Person B: 'はい、________！'
'こちらこそ' (Likewise) is the perfect partner for 'Yoroshiku' when both parties are starting a relationship.
Identify the incorrect usage:
'Yoroshiku' is a request for a favor, not a response to gratitude.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but only with friends or people younger than you. For everyone else, use 'Dōzo yoroshiku' or 'Yoroshiku onegaishimasu'.
Sort of. It's used in the same place as 'Nice to meet you,' but it literally means 'Please treat me well.'
It's like saying 'Sincerely' or 'I look forward to hearing from you.' It closes the communication politely.
No. Since you are asking for future goodwill, it is always in the present/future form.
It's not the end of the world, but your introduction will feel 'unfinished' to a Japanese person.
Usually no, unless you are asking for a specific big favor. It's too formal for daily family life.
No, but it makes the phrase sound 'softer' and more inviting.
Say 'Yoroshiku onegai itashimasu'.
No. Use 'O-saki ni shitsurei shimasu' (Excuse me for leaving first) instead.
No, it's used in hobbies, schools, and neighborhoods too!
Related Phrases
{初|はじ}めまして
similarNice to meet you (for the first time)
お{願|ねが}いします
builds onPlease (requesting a favor)
こちらこそ
similarLikewise / Same here
お{世話|せわ}になります
specialized formI will be in your care
失礼します
contrastExcuse me / Goodbye
