If you’re learning Japanese, you’ve likely noticed that there are different ways to say almost everything. You may have already come across the terms “polite speech” and “casual speech” when studying Japanese. These are two major styles of speaking that are essential to know if you want to communicate effectively in Japan.

In this blog post, we’ll break down the differences between polite and casual Japanese, and when to use each, helping you understand how to navigate Japanese conversations in real-life situations.

Polite Speech (です・ます Form)

Polite speech is the default style taught to most beginners. This is because it’s generally safer to use, especially when you’re unsure of your relationship with someone or want to make a good impression. In Japanese, polite forms typically end with ます (masu) for verbs or です (desu) for nouns and adjectives. For example:

• たべます (tabemasu) – “I eat/I will eat.”
• あります (arimasu) – “There is/are (for inanimate objects).”
• おもしろいです (omoshiroi desu) – “It’s interesting.”

Polite speech is appropriate in the following situations:

1. Talking to Strangers: When meeting someone for the first time, it is polite to use ます/です form until you establish a closer relationship.
2. Talking to Someone Older than You: When talking to someone older than you, use polite speech to pay respect respect.
3. Business Settings: In a work environment, the standard is to be formal. This includes using polite forms with colleagues, clients, and superiors.
4. Public Service Situations: If you’re interacting with shop staff, waiters, or asking for directions, polite speech is the safest choice.

Casual Speech (Dictionary Form)

On the other hand, casual speech is used when you’re comfortable with someone and in informal settings. The plain form, also called the dictionary form (because this is the original form in the dictionary without any conjugation), is what you use with close friends, family, or anyone you know well. Here are some examples:

• たべる (taberu) – “I eat/I will eat.”
• ある (aru) – “There is/are (for inanimate objects).”
• おもしろい (omoshiroi) – “It’s interesting.”

Casual speech is used in situations like:

1. Talking to Friends: You can drop the formal endings when you’re chatting with your friends. It sounds more natural and less distant.
2. Speaking with Family Members: Families use casual language at home, which helps create a warm, informal atmosphere.
3. Talking to Someone Younger than You: When talking to someone younger than you, you can use casual speech to sound more friendly, which often helps to build closer relationship with them. 

How to Decide Which Style to Use

One of the trickiest things about Japanese is knowing when to switch between polite and casual forms. Here are a few tips to help you decide:

• Assess Your Relationship: If the person is your superior, elder, or someone you don’t know well, stick to polite speech. When you’ve grown closer or if the person invites you to use casual speech (ためぐち, tameguchi), you can make the switch.
• Context Matters: In formal situations, such as business meetings or official events, polite speech is expected. In informal gatherings or while hanging out with friends, casual speech is suitable.
• Follow the Other Person: When unsure, start with polite speech. If the other person uses casual language with you, it’s usually a sign that you can do the same.

Mixing Casual and Polite Speech

It’s not uncommon for Japanese speakers to mix polite and casual forms within a conversation, especially when talking to someone they’re familiar with but still want to maintain some respect. For example, you might use polite speech initially and then switch to a casual tone when the conversation becomes more relaxed.

Why Does This Matter?

Understanding when to use ます/です forms versus plain forms is key to sounding natural in Japanese. It’s more than just about being polite; it’s about building relationships and showing appropriate respect in various situations. Using the wrong level of formality can make you come across as rude or overly distant, which can impact how your message is received.

Practice Makes Perfect

Getting used to switching between polite and casual speech takes practice. When you study Japanese, try to practice both forms depending on the context. Role-playing different scenarios can be a great way to become comfortable using the appropriate speech style.

Final Thoughts

Polite and casual speech in Japanese isn’t just about grammar—it’s a reflection of social relationships. Whether you’re speaking to someone at work or talking to your best friend, knowing when to use ます/です versus dictionary form will make your Japanese more natural and nuanced.

What situations do you find the trickiest when deciding which form to use? Share your experiences in the comments!

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