Japanese · Greetings & Phrases
いらっしゃいませ
irasshaimase
Welcome (to a shop)
Intermediatephrase
Definition
A formal welcome phrase used by staff in shops, restaurants, and hotels to greet customers as they enter.
Example
いらっしゃいませ、何名様ですか？
Welcome, how many people are in your party?
Etymology
'いらっしゃいませ' (irasshaimase) comes from the verb 'いらっしゃる' which means 'to come or to be' and is a respectful way to greet customers.
How & Where It’s Used
'いらっしゃいませ' is predominantly used in shops, restaurants, and service-oriented contexts, typically spoken by staff to greet customers.