Learn Japanese: How to Say Goodnight Like a Native Speaker

Saying goodnight in Japanese is an essential phrase to master for any traveler or language learner. Whether you're ending a conversation, bidding farewell at a hotel, or simply wishing someone a peaceful night's sleep, knowing the correct way to say goodnight will make your interactions more authentic and meaningful.

Stories of How to Say Goodnight in Japanese

Story 1: The Polite Conversation

Benefit: Showing respect and formality in a conversation.

How to Do:

Oyasumi nasai (おやすみなさい) - This is the most common way to say goodnight in Japanese. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

Oyasumi (おやすみ) - A more casual variation of "oyasumi nasai," appropriate for use among friends and family.

Japanese Phrase	English Translation	Formality
Oyasumi nasai	Good night	Formal
Oyasumi	Good night	Informal

Story 2: The Bedtime Goodbye

Benefit: Expressing a wish for a good night's sleep.

How to Do:

Yoi yume o (よい夢を) - Literally means "good dreams." Typically used when saying goodnight to someone who is going to bed.

Nete kudasai (寝てください) - Politely asking someone to go to bed.

Japanese Phrase	English Translation	Formality
Yoi yume o	Good dreams	Informal
Nete kudasai	Please go to bed	Polite

Story 3: The Nightly Farewell

Benefit: Expressing a desire to see someone again soon.

How to Do:

Mata ashita (また明日) - Literally means "see you tomorrow." Commonly used when saying goodbye at night with the expectation of seeing the person again soon.

Oyasumi saite (おやすみさい) - A more poetic way of saying goodnight, suggesting a wish for the person to have a peaceful night's sleep.

Japanese Phrase	English Translation	Formality
Mata ashita	See you tomorrow	Informal
Oyasumi saite	Good night	Poetic

Basic Concepts of Saying Goodnight in Japanese

Formal vs. Informal: Use formal phrases like "oyasumi nasai" when speaking to superiors or people you don't know well. Informal phrases like "oyasumi" are suitable for friends and family.

Time of Day: "Oyasumi" is typically used after 8 pm. Before this time, use phrases like "sayonara" (goodbye) or "mata ne" (see you later).

Body Language: When saying goodnight, slightly bow your head to show respect.

Pros and Cons of Different Phrases

Phrase	Pros	Cons
Oyasumi nasai	Formal and polite	Can sound too formal in casual settings
Oyasumi	Casual and friendly	Not as respectful as "oyasumi nasai"
Yoi yume o	Expresses a wish for good dreams	Only suitable for people going to bed
Mata ashita	Indicates a desire to see someone again soon	Not appropriate for first-time encounters

Making the Right Choice

The best way to choose the right phrase to say goodnight in Japanese is to consider the formality of the situation and your relationship with the person you're speaking to. If unsure, it's always better to err on the side of caution and use a more formal phrase.

FAQs About Saying Goodnight in Japanese

What is the most common way to say goodnight in Japanese?
- Oyasumi nasai.

When should I use "oyasumi" vs. "oyasumi nasai"?
- Use "oyasumi nasai" in formal situations and "oyasumi" in informal settings.

Is it okay to say "good night" in English to a Japanese person?
- Yes, most Japanese people understand basic English phrases like "good night."

What are some other ways to say goodnight in Japanese?
- Yoi yume o (good dreams), nete kudasai (please go to bed), mata ashita (see you tomorrow), oyasumi saite (good night - poetic).

Is there a specific time of day to say goodnight in Japanese?
- After 8 pm.

Learn Japanese: How to Say Goodnight Like a Native Speaker