Translation and Meaning of: ご馳走 - gochisou

The Japanese word ご馳走 (gochisou) is a term laden with cultural and social significance in Japan. If you have ever watched an anime or Japanese drama, you have probably heard someone express gratitude for a meal by saying "gochisousama deshita." But what exactly does this word mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and everyday uses of ご馳走, as well as how it reflects important values in Japanese society.

In addition to being a common expression in the Japanese vocabulary, ご馳走 has an interesting history behind it. If you are learning Japanese or are simply interested in the culture of the country, understanding this word will help you better appreciate the Japanese relationship with food and hospitality. Let's start with the basics: what does ご馳走 really mean?

Meaning and use of ご馳走

Gochisou (ご馳走) can be translated as "feast," "lavish meal," or even "special treatment." However, its meaning goes beyond the simple translation. The word is used to express gratitude for a meal, especially when someone has been generous in preparing or paying for it. It is common to hear "gochisousama deshita" (ご馳走様でした) after a meal as a form of thanks.

The term can also be used as a verb: ご馳走する (gochisou suru) means "to treat someone to a meal." For example, if a friend invites you to dinner and pays the bill, you can say "今日はご馳走してくれてありがとう" (kyou wa gochisou shite kurete arigatou) - "Thank you for treating me today." This usage reinforces the idea of generosity and sharing present in Japanese culture.

The origin and etymology of ご馳走

The etymology of ご馳走 is fascinating. The word is composed of two kanji: 馳 (chi), which means "to run" or "to gallop," and 走 (sou), which also means "to run." Originally, the term referred to the act of running to prepare a special meal for guests. This reflects the dedication and effort that Japanese hosts traditionally put into warmly welcoming their visitors.

The honorific prefix ご (go) was added later, transforming 馳走 into ご馳走. This prefix is common in Japanese words that denote respect or politeness. The evolution of the term shows how Japanese hospitality values not only the food itself but also the care and attention dedicated to preparing and serving it.

The cultural meaning of ご馳走

In Japan, ご馳走 (gochisō) is not just about food - it's about human connection. When someone says "gochisousama deshita," they are acknowledging the effort and generosity of those who provided the meal. This expression is taught from an early age to Japanese children, reinforcing values of gratitude and respect for the food and those who prepared it.

The concept behind ご馳走 is also connected to mottainai, the Japanese idea of avoiding waste. By valuing each meal as something special (even if simple), the Japanese cultivate a more mindful relationship with food. It’s no coincidence that the word often appears in family and friendship contexts, where meals are moments of togetherness.

How to use ご馳走 in everyday life

If you want to use ご馳走 correctly, remember that it mainly appears in two situations: when you are being treated to a meal or when you are thanking for it. The most common form is "gochisousama deshita," said after eating. In more casual situations, especially among friends, it can be abbreviated to simply "gochisousama."

Another important use is when you want to invite someone to eat. Saying "今度ご馳走するよ" (kondo gochisou suru yo) means "I'll treat you next time". This is a common way to return a favor or simply to show appreciation for someone. The word always carries a positive connotation of sharing and generosity.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ごちそう (gochisou) - Feast; special meal
• ごちそうさま (gochisousama) - Thank you after the meal (informal)
• ごちそうさまでした (gochisousama deshita) - Thank you for the meal (formal)
• 御馳走 (gochisou) - Feast; special meal (more formal)
• 御馳走様 (gochisousama) - Thank you for the meal (formal, more polite)
• 御馳走様でした (gochisousama deshita) - Thank you after the meal (very formal)

ご馳走

Romaji: gochisou
Kana: ごちそう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4, jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: banquet; Treating (someone)

Meaning in English: feast;treating (someone)

Definition: Be hospitable and welcoming to others. Offer your cuisine or food.

Example Sentences - (ご馳走) gochisou

See below some example sentences:

ご馳走さまでした。

Gochisousama deshita

Thanks for the delicious meal.

It was a feast.

• ご - Japanese honorific prefix
• 馳走 - delicious dish, banquet
• さま - Japanese honorific suffix
• でした - past tense of the verb "to be"