10 essential Japanese phrases for making a phone call
Master essential Japanese phrases for confident and clear phone conversations. Be understood in any situation!
Making phone calls in a foreign language can be daunting, but with the right phrases, you can navigate most situations with ease. Whether you're booking an appointment, confirming details, or simply reaching out, these expressions will be your reliable guide. This phrase pack covers key moments in a phone call, from initiating the conversation to politely ending it. Practice them to build your confidence and ensure smooth communication with Japanese speakers.
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
- もしもしmoh-sheh-moh-shehHello? (on the phone)
- 〇〇さんはいらっしゃいますか？maru-maru-san wa ee-rassh-ai-mas-kaIs Mr./Ms. [Name] there?
- 〇〇と申しますmaru-maru to moh-shee-masMy name is [Name].
- お電話ありがとうございますoh-den-wa ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-masThank you for calling.
- 少々お待ちくださいshoh-shoh oh-mah-chee koo-dah-saiPlease wait a moment.
- 伝言をお願いできますか？den-gon oh-neh-gai-ee deh-kee-mas-kaCould I leave a message?
- もう一度お願いしますmoh ee-chee-doh oh-neh-gai-ee-masCould you say that again, please?
- よく聞こえませんyoh-koo kee-koh-eh-mas-enI can't hear you well.
- 後ほどかけ直しますgo-chi-roh doh kah-keh-na-oh-shee-masI'll call back later.
- 失礼しますshee-tsu-ray-shee-masGoodbye. (polite, for ending calls)
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