「何だよ」(Nanda yo)

Meaning in anime: “What the heck?”

Why you should avoid it
In anime, it’s often used to show frustration or surprise. In real life, it sounds blunt and confrontational, especially with strangers.

What to say instead
すみませんが、これは何ですか？
(Sumimasen ga, kore wa nan desu ka?)
Excuse me, what is this?

This works perfectly in shops, restaurants, or when reading signs you don’t understand.

「早くしろ」(Hayaku shiro)

Meaning in anime: “Hurry up”

Why you should avoid it
This is a direct command. In real life, it sounds bossy and disrespectful, even if you don’t mean it that way.

What to say instead
急いでいただけますか？
(Isoide itadakemasu ka?)
Could you hurry, please?

Polite, indirect, and appropriate in public situations.

「俺がやる」(Ore ga yaru)

Meaning in anime: “I’ll do it”

Why you should avoid it
俺 (ore) is very casual and masculine. With strangers, it can sound arrogant or overly familiar.

What to say instead
私がやります
(Watashi ga yarimasu)
I’ll do it

Neutral, polite, and safe in any situation.

「お前」(Omae)

Meaning in anime: “You”

Why you should avoid it
In real life, omae can sound rude or aggressive. It’s rarely used with strangers.

What to say instead

Avoid saying “you” at all.
Japanese often drops the subject completely or uses names with -san.

Example
お水、いかがですか？
(O-mizu, ikaga desu ka?)
Would you like some water?

Why this matters when traveling in Japan

Using polite Japanese isn’t about being perfect.
It’s about showing respect.

It helps you:

• Avoid awkward situations

• Connect more easily with locals

• Feel more comfortable and confident while traveling

Even a few polite phrases make a big difference.

Language tips for travelers

Use polite basics often
- すみません (excuse me)
- ありがとうございます (thank you)
- お願いします (please)

Avoid anime slang unless you’re joking with close friends.

Listen to how locals speak. Japanese is usually soft, indirect, and calm in daily life.