Formal to Senior
Care · Daily · Support
お味噌汁、熱すぎませんか？冷ましましょうか？ — Is the miso soup too hot? Shall I cool it down for you? (Care · Daily · Support, Formal to Senior, JLPT N4)
You
お味噌汁、熱すぎませんか？冷ましましょうか？
おみそしる、あつすぎませんか？さましましょうか？
Is the miso soup too hot? Shall I cool it down for you?
Romaji: Omisoshiru, atsusugimasen ka? Samashimashou ka? / Reply Romaji: A, choudo ii kana. Arigatou.
Reply
あ、ちょうどいいかな。ありがとう。
あ、ちょうどいいかな。ありがとう。
Oh, it's just right. Thank you.
Gesture & etiquette
Touch the bowl side briefly with the back of your fingers to confirm it's not scalding before serving. If they say it's too hot, take it back without comment, cool it with stirring, and re-offer. Don't fuss or apologize repeatedly — just handle it calmly.
Senior tongues are heat-sensitive, and accidental burns from hot soup are common. Always check before serving and let the senior confirm. 'Samashimashou ka' (shall I cool it?) offers an active service rather than just asking — easier for them to accept. Stir gently with a spoon or blow softly across the surface (never directly into the bowl) to cool.