WHY DO JAPANESE PEOPLE SAY ITADAKIMASU AND GOCHISOUSAMA DESHITA

This article summarizes Japanese culture in a Q&A format.

This time, we focus on 'Itadakimasu' and 'Gochisousama deshita’.

Q: What do Japanese people say before eating a meal?

A: Before eating, Japanese people say "Itadakimasu." This phrase expresses gratitude for the food, the people who prepared it, and the life that was taken to provide the meal. It’s a polite and humble way to acknowledge that eating is possible thanks to many efforts and sacrifices.

Q: What do they say after finishing the meal?

A: After the meal, they say "Gochisousama deshita." This phrase means “Thank you for the feast,” and it’s used to show appreciation to the cook, the food itself, and everyone involved in making the meal possible. It reflects respect and gratitude in Japanese culture.

Q: Are these phrases religious?

A: Not necessarily. While they have roots in Buddhist ideas of respect for life, today they are widely used in both religious and secular contexts. They are considered good manners rather than religious rituals.

Q: Do people still say them today?

A: Yes, these phrases are still commonly used in homes, schools, restaurants, and even during lunch breaks at work. Teaching children to say itadakimasu and gochisousama is a part of cultural education in Japan.

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(This article was written using ChatGPT.)