Meaning
An encouraging phrase telling someone not to rush.
Cultural Background
The phrase is a key part of 'Omotenashi' (Japanese hospitality). It's about creating a 'safe space' where the guest feels no pressure. In Japanese business, time is money, but politeness is more important. Using this phrase shows you are a 'big' person who isn't easily stressed. On platforms like Twitter or LINE, people use this phrase to show they are 'chill' and not demanding immediate attention. Parents use it to teach children patience and to enjoy their food rather than gulping it down.
The 'Go' Rule
Always use 'Go-yukkuri' in a restaurant. It makes you sound like a sophisticated speaker who understands Japanese etiquette.
Don't over-use with superiors
If your boss is working hard, 'Yukkuri' might sound like you think they are slow. Use 'O-tsukaresama' instead.
Meaning
An encouraging phrase telling someone not to rush.
The 'Go' Rule
Always use 'Go-yukkuri' in a restaurant. It makes you sound like a sophisticated speaker who understands Japanese etiquette.
Don't over-use with superiors
If your boss is working hard, 'Yukkuri' might sound like you think they are slow. Use 'O-tsukaresama' instead.
The Smile Factor
This phrase is 50% words and 50% facial expression. A kind smile makes the 'yukkuri' feel genuine.
Test Yourself
Match the situation to the most natural use of 'ゆっくりどうぞ'.
A waiter brings a hot bowl of ramen to your table.
In a restaurant, the staff uses this phrase to tell the customer to enjoy the meal.
Fill in the blank to make the phrase more formal.
（ ）ゆっくりどうぞ。
'Go-' is the honorific prefix used for 'yukkuri'.
Complete the text message exchange.
Friend: 'I'm sorry, I'm still at work. I'll be 10 minutes late!' You: 'No problem! ________.'
'Yukkuri douzo' is the kindest way to respond to someone who is running late.
Which of these is NOT a good time to say 'ゆっくりどうぞ'?
Choose the inappropriate situation:
You should never tell someone to go slowly in a life-threatening emergency!
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesA waiter brings a hot bowl of ramen to your table.
In a restaurant, the staff uses this phrase to tell the customer to enjoy the meal.
（ ）ゆっくりどうぞ。
'Go-' is the honorific prefix used for 'yukkuri'.
Friend: 'I'm sorry, I'm still at work. I'll be 10 minutes late!' You: 'No problem! ________.'
'Yukkuri douzo' is the kindest way to respond to someone who is running late.
Choose the inappropriate situation:
You should never tell someone to go slowly in a life-threatening emergency!
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsYes, if they are doing something for you (like writing a note), it's a nice way to show you aren't impatient.
Absolutely. It's a very common way to end an email when you are asking for a favor but don't need it immediately.
'Yukkuri' is about being slow/relaxed. 'Sorosoro' means 'soon' or 'it's time to...'
Japanese often shortens phrases in high-frequency situations. 'Go-yukkuri' is a polite shorthand.
No, but it's often said *as* someone is leaving or starting an activity, so it can feel like a parting wish.
Related Phrases
ゆっくりしていってね
similarPlease stay and relax.
お{先|さき}にどうぞ
contrastAfter you / Please go first.
お{大事|だいじ}に
similarTake care.
ご{自由|じゆう}にどうぞ
builds onPlease help yourself / Feel free.
