Formal to Acquaintance
Cultural · Gift
つまらないものですが、どうぞお受け取りください。 — This is a small token, but please accept it. (Cultural · Gift, Formal to Acquaintance, JLPT N3)
You
つまらないものですが、どうぞお受け取りください。
つまらないものですが、どうぞおうけとりください。
This is a small token, but please accept it.
Romaji: Tsumaranai mono desu ga, douzo o-uketori kudasai. / Reply Romaji: Maa, arigatou gozaimasu. Ki wo tsukatte itadaite.
Reply
まあ、ありがとうございます。気を遣っていただいて。
まあ、ありがとうございます。きをつかっていただいて。
Oh, thank you so much. You really shouldn't have.
Gesture & etiquette
Hold the gift with both hands at chest level and bow slightly (about 15 degrees) as you present it. Maintain a modest, slightly apologetic expression — this humility is genuine, not false modesty. The recipient will often decline once before accepting; offer again.
「つまらないもの」literally means 'a boring/worthless thing,' but this is a cornerstone of Japanese gift-giving etiquette — downplaying your gift shows humility and respect. Never describe your gift as expensive or high-quality upfront, as this puts pressure on the recipient and is considered boastful.