As a student learning Japanese, it is important to maintain a good relationship with your teacher. One way to do this is by promptly responding to their emails. However, responding in Japanese can be daunting, especially if you are not confident in your language skills. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to write a proper email response to your Japanese teacher.
1. Greet Your Teacher Respectfully
When writing an email to your teacher, always start with a respectful greeting. You can use “先生” (sensei) which means teacher, followed by their name or surname. For example, “先生、山田です。” (Sensei, Yamada desu.)
2. Show Gratitude
Expressing gratitude is an important aspect of Japanese culture. In your email, make sure to show appreciation for your teacher’s time and effort. For example, you can say “お忙しい中、メールありがとうございます。” (Oisogashii naka, meiru arigatou gozaimasu), which means “Thank you for taking the time to email me despite your busy schedule.”
3. Respond in Polite Language
Politeness is highly valued in Japanese culture. When responding to your teacher’s email, use polite language. For instance, use “です” (desu) instead of “だ” (da) at the end of your sentences. Additionally, use “お” (o) and “ご” (go) before nouns to show respect. For example, “お名前” (o-namae) instead of “名前” (namae), which means “name.”
4. Avoid Slang and Casual Language
When writing an email to your teacher, avoid using slang and casual language. Keep your language formal and respectful. While it may be tempting to use some of the Japanese words you’ve learned from anime or manga, it’s better to stick with proper grammar and vocabulary.
5. Check Your Grammar and Spelling
Before sending your email, make sure to double-check your grammar and spelling. You can use online tools like Grammarly to help you. A well-written email shows your teacher that you are serious about learning Japanese and respect their time.
6. Keep Your Email Brief and to the Point
When writing an email to your teacher, keep it brief and to the point. Be clear about what you want to say and avoid rambling. Your teacher is busy and may not have time to read a long email.
7. Respond Promptly
It is important to respond to your teacher’s email promptly. This shows that you are responsible and respectful of their time. Additionally, if you wait too long to respond, your teacher may forget what they asked you in their previous email.
8. Use Proper Email Etiquette
When writing an email to your teacher, use proper email etiquette. This means using a clear and concise subject line, avoiding all caps and excessive exclamation marks, and using a professional email address.
9. Ask Questions
If you have any questions about the assignment or lesson, don’t be afraid to ask. Your teacher is there to help you, and they will appreciate your initiative to learn. However, make sure to ask your questions politely and respectfully.
10. Express Interest in the Lesson
Show your teacher that you are interested in the lesson by asking questions or sharing your thoughts. This will not only make the lesson more engaging but also help you build a better relationship with your teacher.
11. Use Proper Sign-Offs
When ending your email, use a proper sign-off. You can use “敬具” (keigu), which means “sincerely,” followed by your name. For example, “敬具、山田” (Keigu, Yamada).
12. Don’t Use Emojis or Emoticons
While emojis and emoticons are popular in casual conversations, they are not appropriate to use in an email to your teacher. Stick to proper grammar and vocabulary instead.
13. Be Respectful
Always be respectful when writing an email to your teacher. Avoid using slang or casual language, and use polite language throughout your email.
14. Use Formal Titles
If your teacher has a formal title, such as “教授” (kyouju) which means “professor,” use it in your email. This shows respect for their position and expertise.
15. Be Thankful for Feedback
If your teacher provides feedback on your work, be thankful for it. Respond to their feedback respectfully and show that you are willing to learn from their suggestions.
16. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Clarification
If you don’t understand something in your teacher’s email, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. This shows that you are engaged in the lesson and want to learn.
17. Be Appreciative of Your Teacher’s Time
Always show appreciation for your teacher’s time. They have a busy schedule and are taking the time to help you learn Japanese. A simple “thank you” can go a long way.
18. Use Proper Punctuation
Use proper punctuation when writing an email to your teacher. This includes using periods, commas, and quotation marks in the right places.
19. Avoid Abbreviations
Abbreviations can be confusing and are not appropriate to use in an email to your teacher. Avoid using them and use proper grammar and vocabulary instead.
20. Use Proper Font and Formatting
When writing an email to your teacher, use a proper font and formatting. Use a simple and easy-to-read font, and avoid using fancy colors or fonts.
21. Be Professional
Always be professional when writing an email to your teacher. This includes using proper grammar and vocabulary, and avoiding slang and casual language.
22. Use Clear Language
Use clear language when writing an email to your teacher. Avoid using overly complicated sentences or vocabulary that you are not familiar with.
23. Be Courteous
Always be courteous when writing an email to your teacher. This includes using polite language, expressing gratitude, and being respectful of their time.
24. Use Proper Intonation
When writing an email in Japanese, use proper intonation. This includes using the correct pitch accent and rhythm in your sentences.
25. Avoid Using Machine Translation
Avoid using machine translation when writing an email to your teacher. While it may be tempting to use Google Translate, it is not always accurate and can lead to misunderstandings.
26. Show Interest in the Lesson
Show your teacher that you are interested in the lesson by asking questions and sharing your thoughts. This will make the lesson more engaging and help you build a better relationship with your teacher.
27. Review Your Email Before Sending
Before sending your email, review it carefully. Check your grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and make sure that your email is clear and concise.
28. Be Polite and Respectful
Always be polite and respectful when writing an email to your teacher. This includes using polite language, showing gratitude, and being courteous.
29. Don’t Use Jargon
Avoid using jargon or technical terms that your teacher may not understand. Use simple and clear language that is easy to understand.
30. Use Proper Tone
Use a proper tone when writing an email to your teacher. Avoid being too formal or too casual, and use a tone that is appropriate for the situation.
Conclusion
Writing an email to your Japanese teacher can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can write a proper and respectful email that shows your teacher that you are serious about learning Japanese. Remember to use polite language, show gratitude, and be courteous. With practice, you’ll be able to write emails to your teacher with confidence and ease.
