Are you finding it difficult to say no? Do people constantly take advantage of your generosity? If so, you need to learn the art of saying “Yamete Kudasai”. It's a phrase that can help you set boundaries and protect your time and energy.
Let’s look at the history and usage of "Yamete Kudasai" in Japan and consider why it's such an essential part of daily life there. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The literal translation of "Yamete Kudasai" is "please stop". It's a polite request for someone to stop doing something that is bothering you or causing inconvenience. It originated from the verb "Yamero", which means "to stop" or "to quit". The word "Kudasai" is a polite form of the verb "Kureru", which means "to give".
So, put together, "Yamete Kudasai," tells "please stop" or "please quit".
With its soft syllables and gentle tone, “Yamete Kudasai” is a phrase that can soothe even the most frazzled nerves. It is widely used in Japan to say "no" or set boundaries politely. It can be used in various situations, such as asking a colleague to stop talking so you can concentrate, telling a friend not to call you so late at night, or asking a stranger not to smoke near you.
"Yamete Kudasai" is a phrase that can be used in both formal and informal situations. However, it is more commonly used in casual settings.
Example Usage
“I don’t like what you are doing, Yamete Kudasai”
“You are always saying things about how I look, Yamete Kudasai”
“Yamete Kudasai, I don’t like your advances”
Origin
The expression “Yamete Kudasai" is believed to have originated from Japan. The earliest use of the phrase was in the early 1900s. The expression "Yamete Kudasai" has been used in many different contexts. In this era, the most common use of the phrase is as an expression of frustration or annoyance. It is often used when someone is doing something bothersome or annoying.
The use of Yamete Kudasai has evolved, and it is now used in various ways. Some people use it as a way to express their annoyance with someone. Others use it to ask someone to stop doing something politely. Since it has an aggressive nature, it is not always used politely.
In Japan, the phrase is often used to tell someone to stop something and is frequently used. In 2021, a Japanese woman's meme went viral, saying Yamete Kudasai, and it has been used in various ways online. The bottom line is that Yamete Kudasai can be a helpful phrase to know, whether you're looking to express your annoyance or want to be polite.
Phrases Similar to Yamete Kudasai
- Yamete yo, which means "Stop it."
- Yamero is an informal way of asking someone to "Stop it."
- Dame, which means "No good/Not allowed."
- Iya, which means "No."
- Yada, which means "No way."
Phrases Opposite to Yamete Kudasai
- Onegai shimasu means "to do" or "do me this favour."
- Douzo, which means "Please go ahead", inviting someone to do something
- Hai, Ee, and un, which mean "Yes", are used for showing a positive response
- Sou desu, which means "That's right."
What is The Correct Saying?
- Yamete kudasai? - Can you please stop it?
Ways People May Incorrectly Say Yamete Kudasai
Remember, Yamete Kudasai is imperative, so the verb needs to be in its dictionary form. Yamete Kudasai can be considered quite rude, so it shouldn't be said to someone you don't know well or to someone in a position of authority. Some people might try to add an extra syllable to the end of Yamete Kudasai, which changes the meaning completely. The correct way to say Yamete Kudasai is simply by using the two words alone.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Yamete Kudasai
- I don’t want to watch anymore, Yamete Kudasai.
- Yamete Kudasai, you keep stepping on my dress.