Abstract

Which expression you use in making a request depends on many factors, including the social status of the person of whom you are asking a favor, the formality of the situation, the gender of the speaker and of the addressee, and the type of relationship. In a work situation, for example, colleagues (equals in status) might use very formal or polite request forms, and a superior might also use polite requests in talking to his/her younger colleagues. On the other hand, family members or close friends will make a request in informal ways. One also uses more polite requests in asking for a more difficult favor. In general, requests are made with the verbs of giving and receiving in Japanese. The following are some typical expressions in making requests.