JLPT N5
Asking for Water
Japanese
おみずをおねがいします
Omizu wo onegaishimasu
Lesson & Usage
- [English equivalent: "Water, please."] A simple way to ask for a glass of water in a restaurant. Most Japanese restaurants provide free water, but if your glass is empty, you can use this phrase to ask for a refill.
Culture & Etiquette
- In Japan, providing free water (or tea) is part of the basic hospitality called "Omotenashi." It is considered a sign of a welcoming environment. Japanese water is safe to drink from the tap, which is a point of national pride.
