In 15 Seconds
- Used to ask someone to slow down their speech for clarity.
- Combines 'yukkuri' (slowly) with 'iu' (to say).
- Essential for beginners navigating real-world Japanese conversations.
Meaning
This phrase is your secret weapon for when Japanese conversations feel too fast. It literally means 'to say slowly' and is usually used to ask someone to slow down their speech so you can understand them better.
Key Examples
3 of 6At a train station ticket counter
すみません、ゆっくり言ってください。
Excuse me, please say it slowly.
Texting a Japanese friend who sent a fast voice note
ごめん！もっとゆっくり言って！
Sorry! Say it more slowly!
In a business meeting with a client
申し訳ありませんが、もう少しゆっくり言っていただいてもよろしいでしょうか。
I am terribly sorry, but would you mind saying it a little more slowly?
Cultural Background
Japanese people are often very patient with learners.
Smile!
Always smile when you ask. It makes the request feel friendly, not demanding.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to ask someone to slow down their speech for clarity.
- Combines 'yukkuri' (slowly) with 'iu' (to say).
- Essential for beginners navigating real-world Japanese conversations.
What It Means
ゆっくり言う is the ultimate 'slow-motion' button for Japanese speech. It combines the adverb ゆっくり (slowly, leisurely) with the verb 言う (to say). When you use this, you aren't just asking for a lower speed. You are asking for clarity. It is the bridge between hearing a blur of sounds and actually understanding words. Think of it as a polite way to tell your brain's processor to catch up. It is one of the first phrases you should master.
How To Use It
In most cases, you will use the 'te-form' plus kudasai to make a request. This looks like ゆっくり言ってください (Yukkuri itte kudasai). If you are talking to a close friend, you can just say ゆっくり言って (Yukkuri itte). You can also use it to describe an action. For example, 'I will say the password slowly' would be Pasuwaado o yukkuri iimasu. It is very flexible. Just remember that iu (to say) is the base, but it changes shape depending on the grammar.
When To Use It
Use this phrase whenever you feel overwhelmed by a native speaker's speed. It is perfect at a train station window. It is great when a waiter is explaining a complex menu. You can use it in a classroom or during a language exchange. If you are texting and the other person sends a voice note, you can reply with this too. It shows you are engaged and want to understand. It is much better than just nodding and smiling while being totally lost.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this phrase if someone is already speaking very slowly. It might come across as a bit sarcastic or rude. Also, do not use the short form ゆっくり言って with your boss or a teacher. That is too casual. In a high-pressure emergency, like 'Watch out!', you probably don't want anyone to say it slowly. Lastly, don't confuse it with yukkuri shite, which means 'please relax' or 'take your time' in a general sense.
Cultural Background
Japanese culture places a high value on 'Omotenashi' or hospitality. Most Japanese people are genuinely happy to help you learn their language. They often don't realize how fast they are speaking! Asking them to slow down is seen as a sign of respect for the conversation. It shows you care enough to want the full meaning. In big cities like Tokyo, life moves fast, so people speak fast. Don't be afraid to break that pace. It is a common and accepted request for any language learner.
Common Variations
You will often hear ゆっくり話す (yukkuri hanasu) as well. While iu means 'to say', hanasu means 'to speak' or 'to converse'. They are often interchangeable in this context. Another common one is もっとゆっくり (motto yukkuri), which means 'more slowly'. If you want to be extra polite, you can say ゆっくりおっしゃってください (yukkuri osshatte kudasai). This uses 'keigo' or honorific language. It is great for very formal business meetings or when talking to someone of high status.
Usage Notes
Always use the 'te-form' (`itte`) when making a request with `kudasai`. Without it, the phrase is just a statement of fact, not a request.
Smile!
Always smile when you ask. It makes the request feel friendly, not demanding.
Examples
6すみません、ゆっくり言ってください。
Excuse me, please say it slowly.
Using 'kudasai' makes this a polite and standard request for help.
ごめん！もっとゆっくり言って！
Sorry! Say it more slowly!
The 'te' form without 'kudasai' is perfect for close friends.
申し訳ありませんが、もう少しゆっくり言っていただいてもよろしいでしょうか。
I am terribly sorry, but would you mind saying it a little more slowly?
This is a very high-level, professional way to ask for a slower pace.
ゆっくり言うから、よく聞いてね。
I'll say it slowly, so listen carefully, okay?
Here, the speaker is describing their own action of speaking slowly.
猫に「おやつ」とゆっくり言う。
Saying 'treat' slowly to the cat.
Used to describe the action in a narrative or funny context.
大切なことだから、ゆっくり言います。
This is important, so I will say it slowly.
Adds weight and emphasis to what is about to be said.
Test Yourself
Which is the most polite way to ask someone to speak slowly?
Which sentence is correct?
The te-form + kudasai is the standard polite request.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Levels of 'Saying it Slowly'
Used with friends or family.
ゆっくり言って (Yukkuri itte)
Standard for strangers or shops.
ゆっくり言ってください (Yukkuri itte kudasai)
Used in business or with superiors.
ゆっくりおっしゃってください (Yukkuri osshatte kudasai)
When to use 'Yukkuri Iu'
Ordering Food
When the waiter lists specials too fast.
Language Exchange
When your partner forgets you are a beginner.
Asking Directions
When the map explanation is a blur.
Phone Calls
When the connection is bad or speech is fast.
Practice Bank
1 exercisesWhich sentence is correct?
The te-form + kudasai is the standard polite request.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it is very polite if you use 'kudasai'.
Related Phrases
もう一度お願いします
similarOne more time, please.
