What it literally says

please wait a little

Japanese politeness is mostly built out of phrases that stopped being literal a long time ago. Knowing what is underneath is the difference between repeating a sound and knowing what you said.

When to use it

Universally useful, not only in a taxi.

Next in Taxis and Buses

• A receipt, please領収書をお願いします
• To the station, please駅までお願いします
• To this address, pleaseこの住所までお願いします
• Where do I pay?どこで払いますか
• Does this bus go to …?このバスは…に行きますか
• How much will it cost?いくらぐらいですか

The rest of the phrasebook

• Greetings挨拶14
• Thanks and Politeness感謝13
• Apologies謝罪13
• Yes, No and Understanding返事14
• Introductions自己紹介13
• Small Talk雑談13
• Numbers and Counting数14
• Time and Dates時間13
• Asking Directions道案内14
• Trains and Stations電車15
• Hotels and Ryokan宿14
• Restaurants and Ordering食事16
• Allergies and Food Restrictions食事制限13
• Convenience Stores and Shopping買い物14
• Money and Payment支払い13
• Temples and Sightseeing観光13
• Onsen and Public Baths温泉13
• Health and Pharmacy体調14
• Emergencies緊急14
• Lost Things and Trouble困りごと13
• Phone and Internet通信12
• Weather and Seasons天気13
• Reactions and Compliments相づち13
• Goodbyes別れ13

All 337 phrases →