JLPT N4
Asking for a Small Favor
Japanese
てつだってもらえませんか？
Tetsudatte moraemasenka?
Lesson & Usage
- [English equivalent: "Could you help me?" or "Can you give me a hand?"] This is a polite way to ask for assistance. Using the "te-form + moraemasenka" grammar shows that you are requesting a favor from someone else in a respectful manner.
Culture & Etiquette
- In Japanese society, asking for help is seen as a sign of trust, but it must be done with humility. The phrase literally means "Can I receive the favor of your help?" which places the speaker in a lower position of gratitude.
