Meaning
Commenting on cold weather, often as a conversation starter.
Cultural Background
Small talk about the weather is a way to show you are observant and polite without being intrusive. While weather is also a common topic, it is often used to fill silence rather than to establish social harmony. Weather comments are common, but often lead into more personal questions about health or family.
The 'Ne' Power
Using 'ne' is the secret to sounding natural in Japanese. It invites the other person to participate.
Watch the Weather
Check the forecast before you go out so you can use this phrase confidently!
Meaning
Commenting on cold weather, often as a conversation starter.
The 'Ne' Power
Using 'ne' is the secret to sounding natural in Japanese. It invites the other person to participate.
Watch the Weather
Check the forecast before you go out so you can use this phrase confidently!
Silence is Okay
In Japan, silence is not always bad, but this phrase helps if you feel like you need to say something.
Test Yourself
Which is the correct polite way to say it's cold?
Choose the correct phrase:
The correct structure is Adjective + desu + ne.
Complete the sentence.
Today is cold, isn't it? -> {今日|きょう}は____ですね。
Samui means cold.
What do you say when a neighbor says '{寒|さむ}いですね'?
Neighbor: '{寒|さむ}いですね。' You: ____
Agreeing with the weather comment is the polite response.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are in an elevator with a stranger.
Weather is the best topic for elevator small talk.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesChoose the correct phrase:
The correct structure is Adjective + desu + ne.
Today is cold, isn't it? -> {今日|きょう}は____ですね。
Samui means cold.
Neighbor: '{寒|さむ}いですね。' You: ____
Agreeing with the weather comment is the polite response.
You are in an elevator with a stranger.
Weather is the best topic for elevator small talk.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsYes, it is perfectly polite and safe.
Just smile and say 'Sou desu ne' (I see).
Yes, use it when the temperature is low.
It's a natural part of fast Japanese speech.
Yes, it's a common opening in seasonal letters.
You can say '{寒|さむ}いですねぇ'.
It's okay, it's just small talk!
It means the environment is cold.
Related Phrases
{暑|あつ}いですね
similarIt's hot, isn't it?
{いい|いい}ですね
builds onThat's nice, isn't it?
{寒|さむ}いね
specialized formIt's cold, right?
