Meaning
Used when responding to someone who might have called for you.
Cultural Background
Responding to a summons is not just about answering; it's about showing 'readiness to serve.' Speed is often as important as the words used. In high-end Ryokan (inns), staff are trained to anticipate a guest's needs. If a guest even looks like they are searching for someone, the staff will approach with this phrase. This phrase is a trope for 'loyal servant' characters. It establishes their role and devotion to their master immediately. While modern families are more casual, in traditional households, children might still use this with their grandparents to show proper upbringing.
The 'Half-Step' Rule
When saying this in an office, take a half-step toward the person who called you. It shows physical readiness to match your verbal politeness.
Don't Overuse with Peers
If you use this with a coworker you eat lunch with every day, they might think you're being sarcastic or 'acting like a subordinate.'
Meaning
Used when responding to someone who might have called for you.
The 'Half-Step' Rule
When saying this in an office, take a half-step toward the person who called you. It shows physical readiness to match your verbal politeness.
Don't Overuse with Peers
If you use this with a coworker you eat lunch with every day, they might think you're being sarcastic or 'acting like a subordinate.'
Eye Contact
In Japan, don't stare intensely when saying this. A slight bow or looking at their neck/chest area is more polite than direct, piercing eye contact.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing parts to make the phrase polite.
（ ）{呼|よ}び（ ）か？
The correct polite pattern is 'O' + Stem + 'Desu ka'.
Match the phrase to the correct person you are speaking to.
Who would you say 'お{呼|よ}びですか？' to?
This is a formal phrase used for superiors or customers.
Complete the office dialogue.
Boss: {佐藤|さとう}さん、ちょっといいかな？ Satou: はい、（ ）。
Satou should respond politely to the boss's summons.
Which of these is the MOST formal version?
Select the highest level of politeness.
'Deshou ka' adds a layer of humble uncertainty, making it the most formal.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises（ ）{呼|よ}び（ ）か？
The correct polite pattern is 'O' + Stem + 'Desu ka'.
Who would you say 'お{呼|よ}びですか？' to?
This is a formal phrase used for superiors or customers.
Boss: {佐藤|さとう}さん、ちょっといいかな？ Satou: はい、（ ）。
Satou should respond politely to the boss's summons.
Select the highest level of politeness.
'Deshou ka' adds a layer of humble uncertainty, making it the most formal.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, it is very appropriate and will make you sound like a very respectful student.
You can add your name: '{私|わたし}、お{呼|よ}びですか？' (Did you call for me?)
No, it's not wrong, but 'O-yobi desu ka' is more 'natural' and professional in a workplace setting.
Just say '{呼|よ}んだ？' (Yonda?). Using 'O-yobi desu ka' would be weirdly formal.
Related Phrases
{呼|よ}びましたか？
similarDid you call?
{呼|よ}んだ？
informalDid you call? / You called?
お{呼|よ}びでしょうか？
specialized formMight you be calling for me?
ご{用|よう}でしょうか？
similarDo you have some business with me?
