Meaning
Said when something is easy to do or happy to help.
Cultural Background
The use of 'O' and 'Go' in this phrase is a remnant of 'Bushi-kotoba' (samurai speech) and merchant etiquette. It shows how even 'easy' tasks are treated with a level of formal respect in Japanese social history. In modern Japanese offices, using this phrase can help break the ice between a senior (Sempai) and a junior (Kohai). It makes the senior seem approachable. Ryokan (traditional inn) staff might use this to make guests feel that their special requests are no trouble at all, embodying the spirit of selfless service.
The 'Yo' Factor
Adding 'yo' (お安い御用ですよ) makes you sound much more friendly and reassuring.
Don't be Sarcastic
If you say this with a sigh, it sounds like you're actually annoyed. Keep your tone bright!
Meaning
Said when something is easy to do or happy to help.
The 'Yo' Factor
Adding 'yo' (お安い御用ですよ) makes you sound much more friendly and reassuring.
Don't be Sarcastic
If you say this with a sigh, it sounds like you're actually annoyed. Keep your tone bright!
Test Yourself
Complete the dialogue with the most natural form of the phrase.
A: {明日|あした}の{朝|あさ}、7{時|じ}に{起|お}こしてくれる？ B: うん、_________だよ！
Since the speaker uses 'un' (casual yes) and 'da yo', the casual 'O-yasui go-you' is the best fit.
Which situation is NOT appropriate for 'O-yasui go-you desu'?
Select the inappropriate context:
The phrase is for easy, low-stakes tasks. Surgery is high-stakes and serious.
Fill in the missing kanji/reading.
お{安|___}い{御用|___}です。
The kanji are 安い (yasui) and 御用 (goyou).
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to say O-yasui Go-you
Friends
- • Borrowing a pen
- • Giving a ride
- • Checking a text
Work
- • Small edits
- • Sharing a file
- • Quick advice
Practice Bank
3 exercisesA: {明日|あした}の{朝|あさ}、7{時|じ}に{起|お}こしてくれる？ B: うん、_________だよ！
Since the speaker uses 'un' (casual yes) and 'da yo', the casual 'O-yasui go-you' is the best fit.
Select the inappropriate context:
The phrase is for easy, low-stakes tasks. Surgery is high-stakes and serious.
お{安|___}い{御用|___}です。
The kanji are 安い (yasui) and 御用 (goyou).
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, if the task is small and you have a friendly relationship. If it's a very formal environment, stick to 'Shouchi itashimashita.'
Metaphorically, yes. It means it 'costs' you very little effort.
Related Phrases
{朝飯前|あさめしまえ}
synonymBefore breakfast; a piece of cake.
{楽勝|らくしょう}
similarEasy win.
{手|て}の{子|こ}を{返|かえ}すよう
similarLike turning over one's hand.
