Translation and Meaning of: 御免ください - gomenkudasai

The Japanese word 御免ください (ごめんください) is a common expression in daily life, but it can cause confusion for language learners. Its meaning, use, and cultural context are essential for those who want to speak Japanese naturally. In this article, we will explore everything from the translation to practical situations where this expression appears, as well as tips for memorizing it correctly.

Meaning and translation of 御免ください

"御免ください" (ごめんください) is a polite expression used to get someone's attention when entering a place, such as a home or a store. Literally translated, it can be understood as "excuse me" or "sorry for intruding." Unlike "すみません" (sumimasen), which also means "sorry," this expression has a more formal and specific tone.

It is worth noting that 御免 (gomen) alone can mean "forgiveness," but when combined with ください (kudasai), it acquires a sense of polite request. It is a way to show respect when entering someone else's space, something deeply valued in Japanese culture.

Origin and Cultural Context

The origin of 御免ください is linked to feudal Japan, where it was used by samurai and servants to request permission before entering homes or territories. The term 御免 (gomen) was an honorific way to ask for authorization, while ください (kudasai) reinforced the tone of humility.

Currently, the expression retains its polite function, being common in situations such as visits to friends' houses, offices, or commercial establishments. However, in informal settings, Japanese people may replace it with a simple こんにちは (konnichiwa) or お邪魔します (ojama shimasu), depending on the context.

How and when to use 御免ください

"Excuse me" is more commonly used when arriving at an enclosed place, such as knocking on the door and announcing your presence. For example, when visiting someone at home, it's polite to say ごめんください when entering, followed by a greeting. In smaller shops, without visible staff, it's also common to use it to call the owner.

One tip for memorizing this expression is to associate it with situations where you are "invading" someone else's space. Think about how it would be polite to ask for permission in those moments. Additionally, listening to dialogues in doramas or animes can help solidify the correct usage, since the expression appears frequently in everyday scenes.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 許してください (Yurushite kudasai) - Please forgive me.
• お許しください (O yurushi kudasai) - Please grant me forgiveness.
• お許しをください (O yurushi o kudasai) - Forgive me.
• ご容赦ください (Go yousha kudasai) - I beg your pardon
• ごめんください (Gomen kudasai) - Excuse me, please (usually used when entering a place).
• すみません (Sumimasen) - Sorry, with a tone of apology or to draw attention.
• お詫び申し上げます (O wabimooshiagemasu) - I sincerely apologize.

御免ください

Romaji: gomenkudasai
Kana: ごめんください
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: I can enter?

Meaning in English: May I come in?

Definition: A phrase to ask for permission, "Please forgive" (also written as "Gomen, please").

Example Sentences - (御免ください) gomenkudasai

See below some example sentences:

御免ください

Gomen kudasai

Please excuse me.

Please do not

• 御 - honorary prefix that indicates respect
• 免 - Sorry, exemption
• ください - Please