10 essential Japanese phrases for emergency situations
Stay safe and communicate effectively in Japan with these vital emergency phrases.

Emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime. Knowing how to ask for help or explain your situation in Japanese can make a critical difference when you most need it. This pack covers common scenarios, from accidents and medical issues to lost items and seeking police assistance. These phrases are designed to be understood by most Japanese speakers, even if your grammar isn't perfect.
What this lesson covers
Core Japanese words for everyday conversation.
English meanings, pronunciation hints, and tap-to-hear audio.
A quick flashcard flow and quiz to make the words stick.
Start with these key words
Learn the first set, listen out loud, then move into the full list below.
Flashcards
Practice quiz
Full vocabulary list
Words 1–10
- 助けてください!TA-skuh-tay koo-dah-SAIHelp me!
- 救急車を呼んでください。kyoo-kyoo-sha oh YON-day koo-dah-SAIPlease call an ambulance.
- 警察を呼んでください。kay-SAHT-soo oh YON-day koo-dah-SAIPlease call the police.
- 気分が悪いです。kee-BOON gah wah-ROO-ee dessI feel sick.
- 怪我をしました。gay-GAH oh shee-mah-shhtaI am injured.
- どこですか?doh-koh dess kahWhere is it?
- ここです。koh-koh dessIt's here.
- わかりません。wah-kah-ree-mah-SENI don't understand.
- これは何ですか?koh-reh wah NAN dess kahWhat is this?
- ありがとう。ah-ree-GAH-tohThank you.
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