Casual — to friend
Cultural · Dining
いただきます。 — Let me receive this. (Essential phrase said before every meal — an expression of gratitude to all involved) (Cultural · Dining, Casual — to friend, JLPT N5)
You
いただきます。
いただきます。
Let me receive this. (Essential phrase said before every meal — an expression of gratitude to all involved)
Romaji: Itadakimasu. / Reply Romaji: Meshiagare.
Reply
召し上がれ。
めしあがれ。
Please enjoy.
Gesture & etiquette
Press both palms together briefly (or hold chopsticks between your palms) and bow your head slightly before eating. This brief moment of gratitude is performed before every meal — at home, in restaurants, and even when eating a snack at work. Do not begin eating before saying this phrase if others are present.
「いただきます」comes from the humble form of 受け取る (to receive). It expresses gratitude to the farmer, the cook, the animal, and nature for contributing to the meal. After eating, say 「ごちそうさまでした」(Thank you for the feast). Skipping either phrase is considered impolite in Japanese homes and restaurants.