What Do Japanese People Say Before Eating?
Written by Sonia Su
Whether you have traveled to Japan or not, you may likely know about the Japanese tradition of saying "いただきます" (Itadakimasu) before eating.
When I visited Japan, I wanted to "do as the Romans do" and do the same at every meal. It's like saying the French phrase bon appetit while in France—it just reinforced the fact that I was in a different country with a rich history and culture.
In this article, I will explore the significance of this phrase, its origins, and the cultural values it embodies within Japanese society.
What Does Itadakimasu Mean?
"Itadakimasu" translates to "I humbly receive" or "I gratefully receive" in English.
This phrase is used in Japanese culture before meals to express gratitude for the food and the efforts that went into its preparation, showing respect for the food itself, those who prepared it, and the natural world that provided it.
The Significance of Itadakimasu
The importance of "いただきます" (Itadakimasu) extends beyond a simple phrase before using your chopsticks to dig into your delicious meal. These are our favorite Japanese chopsticks to enjoy our meal with. And don't forget these adorable Japanese-style cat ceramic chopstick rests. We recommend pairing them with these lucky cat chopsticks!
When Japanese people say "Itadakimasu" before they start eating, they acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved in bringing the food to the table, from farmers and fishermen to cooks and servers.
It also reflects an appreciation for the life that was sacrificed, whether plant or animal, to nourish them. This phrase fosters mindfulness and a connection to the cycle of life and nature, making it a profound and meaningful tradition in Japanese culture.
Here are 5 things you didn't know about Japanese chopsticks.
The Origins of Itadakimasu
The origins of "いただきます" (Itadakimasu) can be traced back to ancient Japanese Buddhist traditions and the cultural concept of humility and gratitude.
The Japanese verb "itadaku" originally meant "to receive" or "to take" with a sense of humility, often used when receiving something from a person of higher status. Itadakimasu the polite form of “itadaku."
Over time, this phrase evolved to express gratitude not only to the people who prepared the meal but also to the animals and plants that provided the food, as well as to the broader forces of nature.
By saying "Itadakimasu," individuals acknowledge and appreciate the effort and life that went into their sustenance, reflecting a deep-rooted cultural value of respect and thankfulness.
In contemporary Japan, saying this phrase remains a common practice.
Japanese Values
"Itadakimasu" embodies several key cultural values within Japanese society, including gratitude, respect, and mindfulness.
By saying "Itadakimasu" before a meal, individuals express appreciation not only to those who prepared the food but also to the farmers, animals, and plants that contributed to the meal. This practice highlights a respect for nature and the interconnectedness of all living things.
It also encourages mindfulness, prompting individuals to pause and consider the effort and sacrifice involved in bringing the food to their table. This expression of gratitude and respect reflects the broader Japanese cultural emphasis on harmony, humility, and the acknowledgment of others' contributions.
Other Japanese Mealtime Phrases
In addition to "Itadakimasu," other common Japanese phrases used at mealtime include:
- Gochisousama deshita (ごちそうさまでした): Said after finishing a meal to express gratitude for the meal and the efforts of those who prepared it. (Did you know it's considered rude to leave food on your plate?)
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Oishii (美味しい): Means "delicious" and is often said during a meal to compliment the taste of the food.
- Meshiagare (召し上がれ): A polite way to invite someone to eat, similar to saying "please enjoy" or "dig in."
- Kanpai (乾杯): Used when making a toast before drinking, typically with alcoholic beverages.
- Itadakimashita (いただきました): Similar to "Itadakimasu," but used after finishing a meal to express gratitude for the food.
- Taberu (食べる): Simply means "to eat," used in casual conversation.
- Meshi (飯): Informal term for "meal" or "cooked rice," commonly used in everyday speech.
- Okawari (おかわり): A polite way to request a second serving or more food.
- Amai (甘い): Means "sweet" and is used to describe sweet flavors or dishes.
- Karai (辛い): Means "spicy" and is used to describe spicy flavors or dishes.
These phrases reflect the key part of Japanese dining etiquette, politeness, and cultural customs surrounding meals when eating ramen.
Make sure to bookmark this page with these phrases for your next adventure to Japan and when practicing chopstick etiquette during mealtimes.
Bottom Line on Itadakimasu
"Itadakimasu" encapsulates more than a simple pre-meal ritual in Japanese culture. It reflects deep-seated values of gratitude, respect, and mindfulness towards food, its origins, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
By uttering this phrase before eating, individuals honor the efforts of farmers, cooks, and nature itself, fostering a sense of appreciation that extends beyond the dining table into daily life.
Embracing "Itadakimasu" invites us to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the abundance around us, embodying a timeless tradition that enriches both the dining experience and the cultural fabric of Japan.
If you liked this article and may be planning your next trip to Japan or simply a Japanese restaurant near you, be sure to check out our other guide on the top traditional Japanese festivals.
We also have beautiful Japanese ramen bowls and Asian soup spoons if you're looking to elevate your dinnerware at home.
Frequently Asked Questions about What itadakimasu Means
What do Japanese say before eating?
Before eating, Japanese people traditionally say "Itadakimasu," which translates to "I humbly receive." This phrase expresses gratitude for the food and those who prepared it.
How do you pronounce itadakimasu?
Itadakimasu is pronounced as "ee-tah-dah-kee-mahs." The syllables are pronounced quickly and smoothly, with emphasis on the second syllable "dah."
What does itadakimasu mean literally?
"Itadakimasu" literally means "I humbly receive" in English. It is commonly used in Japan before eating a meal to express gratitude for the food.
What is bon appetit in Japanese?
"Bon appétit" in Japanese is "いただきます" (Itadakimasu), which is said before eating. It expresses gratitude for the meal and those who prepared it.