Japanese Lessons.
First meetings/ Introductions.<Dialogue>
Namiko: Hajimemaste, Namiko desu.
Doozo yoroshiku.
Paul: Hajimemaste, Paul desu.
Doozo yoroshiku.
A wa B desu = A is B
Wa is a particle and a topic marker (it is like English prepostions, but always comes after nouns).
Desu can be translated as "is, are."
<Example>
Watashi wa Namiko desu.
I am Namiko.
Kore wa hon desu.
This is a book.
Japanese often omit the topic when it is obvious to the other person.
When introducing yourself you can omit "watashi wa," it will sound natural
to a Japanese person. This is because, especially in conversation, "watashi"
is rarely used. "Anata (you)" is similarily avoided.
Hajimemashite doozo yoroshiku.
"Hajimemashite" is used when meeting a person for the first time. "Hajimeru" is the verb which means "to begin". "Doozo yoroshiku" is used when you introduce yourself, and other times when you are asking a favor of someone.
Besides family or close friends, Japanese are rarely addressed by their given names. If you go to Japan as a student, people will probably address you by your first name, but if you go their on business, it is better to introduce yourself with your last name (in this situation, Japanese never introduce themselfs with their first name).
<Translation for dialogue>
Namiko: How do you do?
I 'm Namiko.
Nice to meet you.
Paul: How do you do?
I'm Paul.
Nice to meet you.
See you next week!
