Meaning
A phrase said before eating a meal, expressing gratitude.
Cultural Background
In Japanese elementary schools, 'itadakimasu' is a collective ritual. Students wait for everyone to be ready, and a designated 'lunch leader' leads the class in saying the phrase together. This instills a sense of community and gratitude from a young age. When receiving a business card (meishi), some professionals might say 'itadakimasu' as they take it with both hands. This treats the card as a valuable gift and shows respect to the person offering it. The phrase is linked to the 'Five Contemplations' (Gokei-no-ge) recited by monks before eating, which include reflecting on the effort that brought the food and whether one's own virtue deserves it. With the rise of 'ohitorisama' (solo activities), many people still perform a small 'itadakimasu' gesture even when alone, showing that the gratitude is directed at the food itself, not just a social performance.
The Gassho Gesture
When saying itadakimasu, place your palms together in front of your chest. This is called 'gassho' and adds a layer of sincerity.
The 'O-saki ni' Combo
If your food arrives first at a restaurant, say 'O-saki ni itadakimasu' (I'll start ahead of you) to be extra polite.
Meaning
A phrase said before eating a meal, expressing gratitude.
The Gassho Gesture
When saying itadakimasu, place your palms together in front of your chest. This is called 'gassho' and adds a layer of sincerity.
The 'O-saki ni' Combo
If your food arrives first at a restaurant, say 'O-saki ni itadakimasu' (I'll start ahead of you) to be extra polite.
Don't forget the 'u'
While the 'u' is silent, don't cut the 's' sound too short. It should be a crisp 'ss' sound.
Test Yourself
Match the situation to the correct phrase.
You are at a friend's house and their mother serves you dinner.
You say 'Itadakimasu' before you start eating the meal provided.
Fill in the blank with the correct humble verb.
先生に本を（ ）。
When receiving something from a teacher (superior), you use the humble 'itadakimashita'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ラーメン、お待たせしました！ B: わあ、おいしそう！ （ ）！
B is about to eat the delicious-looking ramen.
Which of these is NOT a correct use of 'itadakimasu'?
Select the incorrect usage:
You cannot use 'itadakimasu' for someone else's action. You should say 'Meshiagare' or 'どうぞ'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Who are we thanking?
Nature
- • Vegetables
- • Fish
- • Sun/Rain
People
- • The Cook
- • The Farmer
- • The Server
Practice Bank
4 exercisesYou are at a friend's house and their mother serves you dinner.
You say 'Itadakimasu' before you start eating the meal provided.
先生に本を（ ）。
When receiving something from a teacher (superior), you use the humble 'itadakimashita'.
A: ラーメン、お待たせしました！ B: わあ、おいしそう！ （ ）！
B is about to eat the delicious-looking ramen.
Select the incorrect usage:
You cannot use 'itadakimasu' for someone else's action. You should say 'Meshiagare' or 'どうぞ'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYou don't *have* to, but many Japanese people do it out of habit or as a personal moment of mindfulness. It's a great way to practice!
It has Buddhist and Shinto origins, but for most people today, it is a secular cultural habit like saying 'Bless you' in English.
Yes, especially if someone made it for you or if you are sitting down to enjoy it as a 'break' (oyatsu).
Don't worry! Just say it as soon as you remember, or make sure to say 'Gochisousama' extra clearly at the end.
Related Phrases
ごちそうさまでした
contrastThat was a feast / Thank you for the meal.
召し上がれ
similarEnjoy your meal / Please eat.
頂戴します
specialized formI humbly receive.
お先に失礼します
builds onExcuse me for going first.
