Meaning
A polite phrase used when parting after having met someone.
Cultural Background
The 'Me-ue' (superior) and 'Me-shita' (inferior) dynamic is crucial. Using humble language like this phrase acknowledges your position and shows you are 'socially intelligent.' The concept of 'Aisatsu' (greetings) is more than just words; it's a way to maintain social harmony (Wa). Ending a meeting properly is as important as starting it. In these highly ritualized settings, humble language is mandatory. Meeting a 'Sensei' or 'Iemoto' requires this specific level of Keigo. In formal business emails (follow-ups), this phrase is often used to recap a successful first meeting.
The 'Eye' Rule
Remember that 'o-me' refers to the other person's eyes. It's a sign of extreme respect to mention their eyes in this humble way.
Timing is Everything
Say this phrase as you are preparing to leave, usually right after the final 'thank you.'
Meaning
A polite phrase used when parting after having met someone.
The 'Eye' Rule
Remember that 'o-me' refers to the other person's eyes. It's a sign of extreme respect to mention their eyes in this humble way.
Timing is Everything
Say this phrase as you are preparing to leave, usually right after the final 'thank you.'
The Bow
A 30-degree bow (keirei) while saying this phrase makes it 100% more authentic.
Test Yourself
Choose the most appropriate phrase to say to a new client as you leave their office.
Client: '{今日|きょう}はありがとうございました。' You: 'こちらこそ、________________。'
This is the standard formal parting for a first-time business meeting.
Complete the humble phrase.
{今日|きょう}は{直接|ちょくせつ}お（ ）にかかれてよかったです。
The idiom is 'o-me ni kakaru' (to hang on the eyes).
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situation: You just finished a casual coffee with a new friend from a language exchange.
With friends, the casual 'Aete yokatta' is most natural.
Complete the business dialogue.
Tanaka-san: '{本日|ほんじつ}は{貴重|きちょう}なお{時間|じかん}をいただき、ありがとうございました。' Learner: 'いいえ、こちらこそ。ようやく（ ）。'
The learner is responding to a formal thank you at the end of a meeting.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesClient: '{今日|きょう}はありがとうございました。' You: 'こちらこそ、________________。'
This is the standard formal parting for a first-time business meeting.
{今日|きょう}は{直接|ちょくせつ}お（ ）にかかれてよかったです。
The idiom is 'o-me ni kakaru' (to hang on the eyes).
Situation: You just finished a casual coffee with a new friend from a language exchange.
With friends, the casual 'Aete yokatta' is most natural.
Tanaka-san: '{本日|ほんじつ}は{貴重|きちょう}なお{時間|じかん}をいただき、ありがとうございました。' Learner: 'いいえ、こちらこそ。ようやく（ ）。'
The learner is responding to a formal thank you at the end of a meeting.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it is very appropriate for a teacher, especially if it's your first time meeting them or a formal occasion.
Only if they are of higher social status (like a young CEO). Otherwise, 'o-ai dekite' is better.
'Yokatta desu' is 'It was good,' while 'Kouei desu' is 'It is an honor.' The latter is much more formal.
Yes, in a formal follow-up text or email after a first meeting, it is very common.
It's actually 'kakarete' (te-form of kakaru). If you use 'kakarerete,' it's the potential form ('being able to meet'), which adds more gratitude.
No, only for the first meeting or after a very long time apart.
Yes, 'Aete yokatta' is the casual equivalent.
Yes, just add 'minasan ni' (to everyone) at the beginning.
You can say 'O-me ni kakarete...' but 'O-hanashi dekite yokatta desu' (It was good to talk to you) is also common.
Not at all. It is standard modern business Japanese.
Related Phrases
お{会|あ}いできてよかったです
similarIt was good to be able to meet you.
{お目|おめ}にかかれて{光栄|こうえい}です
specialized formIt is an honor to meet you.
{会|あ}えてよかった
synonymGlad we could meet.
またお{目|おめ}にかかりたいです
builds onI would like to meet you again.
