Friendly to Senior
Care · Conversation
お孫さん、今いくつになられたんですか？ — How old is your grandchild now? (Care · Conversation, Friendly to Senior, JLPT N4)
You
お孫さん、今いくつになられたんですか？
おまごさん、いまいくつになられたんですか？
How old is your grandchild now?
Romaji: Omagosan, ima ikutsu ni narareta n desu ka? / Reply Romaji: Mou shougakkou san-nensei desu yo. Hayai mon desu nee.
Reply
もう小学校三年生ですよ。早いものですねえ。
もうしょうがっこうさんねんせいですよ。はやいものですねえ。
Already in third grade now. Time flies, doesn't it.
Gesture & etiquette
Lean in slightly, soft warm smile. If they bring out photos, look at them attentively — comment on details ('what a bright smile!') rather than generic 'kawaii.' Genuine engagement matters.
Grandchildren are often a source of pure joy and pride for seniors. The phrasing 'ikutsu ni narareta' uses the honorific 'narareru' (became) — respectful even when asking about a child's age. Asking shows you remember their family situation, which strengthens trust. Expect long, fond responses — settle in to listen.