Page 449 - Basic Japanese

POLITE PHRASES

O-hisashiburi It’s been a long time since I
desu. saw you last.

O-genki desu ka. How are you?

Okagesama de. (I’m fine) thanks to (you and
others).

Shitsurei shimasu. (Expression used when one
parts. Lit., I’ll be rude.)

CULTURE NOTE Bowing

Bowing plays an important role for communication in

Japan. Phrases for gratitude, apology, greeting, and
parting are almost always accompanied by bowing.

People sometimes bow without saying anything. The
deeper the bow, the deeper the respect for the person
to whom you are bowing. The bow is called the

ojigi, or more formally rei. The former is more

common because the latter is only one syllable. The
deepest bow is called saikeirei. The deep bow,
lowering the upper half of the body by 45 degrees, is

required if you make a horrible mistake, receive
overwhelming kindness, or associate with people to

whom you must show serious respect. Otherwise, you
don’t have to bow very deeply. You can lower your

upper body only by about 10–15 degrees, or just tilt
your head forward for a moment or two in casual

situations. When introductions are being made,