What Do Japanese Say Before Eating?
In Japan, before starting a meal, it’s customary to say “Itadakimasu” (いただきます). This phrase has the meaning “to receive; to get; to accept; to take (humble)”. This explains why you say it before you eat. You’re “receiving” food, after all.
It’s a traditional expression of respect, gratitude, and appreciation for the food and all those who contributed to bringing the meal to the table. Saying “Itadakimasu” acknowledges the hard work of farmers, chefs, and even nature itself for the food provided. This is why what Japanese say before eating is such a meaningful phrase in their culture.
Why Do Japanese People Say “Itadakimasu”?
The Origins of “Itadakimasu”
The history of what Japanese say before eating can be traced to ancient customs influenced by both Buddhist and Shinto traditions. While pinpointing its exact origins is challenging, expressing gratitude before eating has been a long-standing part of Japanese culture.
In Buddhism, receiving food is a significant act. Monks traditionally offer prayers of thanks before eating, recognizing the interdependence of all life and expressing appreciation for the nourishment they receive. This gradually spread beyond religious settings and became a broader cultural custom in Japan.
Likewise, Shinto, Japan’s indigenous spiritual belief system, emphasizes deep respect for nature and the spirits that reside in all things. Saying “Itadakimasu” before meals reflects a sense of respect for the natural world and honors the spirit within the food.
These influences combined over time, embedding “Itadakimasu” into daily life across Japan. Today, saying “Itadakimasu” before a meal is a fundamental part of Japanese dining etiquette, reminding people of their connection to others, to nature, and to the food that sustains them.
Is It Necessary to Say “Itadakimasu” Every Time?
Although saying “Itadakimasu” before a meal isn’t mandatory, it’s a deeply ingrained custom in Japan and is widely regarded as polite and respectful. In Japanese etiquette, showing respect and acknowledging the efforts of others is highly valued, making what Japanese say before eating a meaningful phrase that enriches the dining experience.
What Do Japanese People Say After Eating?
After finishing a meal, it is customary in Japan to say “Gochisousama deshita” (ごちそうさまでした), which means “thank you for the meal.” This phrase conveys appreciation for the food and acknowledges the effort put into preparing it. Similar to the pre-meal phrase “Itadakimasu,” “Gochisousama deshita” reflects gratitude and respect for the food and everyone involved in bringing it to the table.
Another common phrase used after eating is “Oishikatta desu” (美味しかったです), which translates to “It was delicious.” This expression of satisfaction highlights the enjoyment of the meal and adds a personal touch of appreciation to the dining experience. Together, these phrases help to express gratitude and acknowledge the hard work behind each meal in Japanese culture.
How Can You Practice Saying “Itadakimasu”?
1. Start Saying It Before Meals
A simple and effective way to practice what Japanese say before eating, including “Itadakimasu,” is to say it before every meal. Whether you’re at home, dining with others, or eating alone, this small gesture will help you connect with Japanese culture and show gratitude for the food.
2. Use Language Learning Apps
For correct pronunciation and to understand the cultural context of “Itadakimasu,” apps like MochiKanji can be incredibly useful. MochiKanji not only helps you learn Japanese vocabulary and kanji but also offers pronunciation guides, audio, and detailed explanations of phrases like “Itadakimasu.” With features like spaced repetition, flashcards, and real-world examples, the app helps you practice and retain phrases in a fun, engaging way.
By using MochiKanji, you’ll be able to practice saying more phrases with confidence, while also remembering the spelling and meaning phrases
Conclusion
Saying “Itadakimasu” before a meal is a meaningful tradition in Japan, rooted in gratitude and respect. Whether you’re learning Japanese or simply want to bring more gratitude to your own meals, practicing what Japanese say before eating can enrich your dining experience.
If you’re interested in diving deeper into the Japanese language and culture, why not start learning today? Every new word or phrase, like “Itadakimasu,” brings you one step closer to understanding and embracing the beauty of Japanese customs. Start practicing now, and let the language transform how you experience meals and culture!
