Meaning
A humble expression used when visiting someone's home or office.
Cultural Background
The home is a private sanctuary. This phrase is a ritual to bridge the gap between public and private. Similar to Japan, there is a strong emphasis on politeness when entering a home. Using '打扰了' is common when visiting, showing respect for the host's time. Often less formal; a simple 'Hello' or 'Thanks for having me' suffices.
The Bow
Pair this phrase with a slight bow for maximum effect.
Shoes Off
Always take your shoes off at the entrance before saying this.
Meaning
A humble expression used when visiting someone's home or office.
The Bow
Pair this phrase with a slight bow for maximum effect.
Shoes Off
Always take your shoes off at the entrance before saying this.
Don't Overuse
Don't say it to the same person every time you enter their room in a shared office.
Test Yourself
Which is the most formal way to enter a client's office?
Client's office entry:
The 'sasete itadakimasu' form is the most humble and appropriate for business.
Fill in the blank for the correct phrase.
When visiting a friend's house, you say: '____.'
This is the standard polite greeting for visiting a home.
Match the situation to the correct phrase.
Entering a boss's home.
Formal situations require the most polite form.
Complete the dialogue.
Host: 'どうぞ、入ってください。' You: '____.'
You are accepting the invitation to enter.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesClient's office entry:
The 'sasete itadakimasu' form is the most humble and appropriate for business.
When visiting a friend's house, you say: '____.'
This is the standard polite greeting for visiting a home.
Entering a boss's home.
Formal situations require the most polite form.
Host: 'どうぞ、入ってください。' You: '____.'
You are accepting the invitation to enter.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsIt might sound too formal. Use 'お邪魔しまーす' instead.
No, hotel staff expect you. It's not a private home.
Just say 'お邪魔します'. It's perfectly polite.
No, it's a polite ritual, not a literal statement.
Yes, when you first enter the room.
It's a humble way to acknowledge your presence as an imposition.
No, it's for physical entry.
'Sumimasen' is a general apology; 'Ojama...' is specific to entering.
Yes, it's polite to acknowledge everyone.
It's a bit formal, but acceptable.
Say 'どうぞ' (Please come in) or 'いらっしゃいませ' (Welcome).
No, the phrase remains the same.
Related Phrases
失礼します
similarExcuse me
お邪魔します
synonymSorry for intruding
お招きいただきありがとうございます
builds onThank you for the invitation
お世話になります
similarThank you for your help
