In the fast-paced Japanese corporate environment, communication is rarely just about exchanging information; it is about reinforcing social bonds. ‘Itterasshai’ is a quintessential example of this. Literally translating to ‘please go and come back,’ it serves as the counterpart to the departure phrase ‘Ittekimasu’ (I am leaving and will return).
Etymology and Cultural Roots
The term is derived from the verb iku (to go) and irassharu (the honorific form of ‘to go/come’). By using the honorific, the speaker is expressing deep respect for the person departing. Historically, it was used within the household to ensure a family member’s safe return. In modern offices, it has been adopted as a professional ‘social lubricant’ that minimizes the loneliness of departure and emphasizes that every team member is expected back to contribute to the collective success of the organization.
Dialogue Scenarios
Scenario 1: Sending a Sales Lead to a Client Meeting
Manager: ‘Apo no jikan desu ne. Itterasshai!’ (It’s time for your appointment. Go and succeed!)
Employee: ‘Ittekimasu!’ (I am heading out!)
Scenario 2: Team Member Heading to a Business Lunch
Colleague: ‘Oishii mono tabete kite kudasai. Itterasshai!’ (Enjoy your meal. See you when you return!)
Scenario 3: An Executive Leaving for an Overseas Trip
Assistant: ‘Ki o tsukete. Itterasshai-mase.’ (Take care. Safe travels.)
Cultural Context: Why It Matters
Using ‘Itterasshai’ is not mandatory, but it significantly impacts team harmony. While a simple ‘goodbye’ might feel final or cold, ‘Itterasshai’ implies a cycle of return, which psychologically reinforces the idea of stable, long-term employment and belonging. It is the verbal equivalent of ‘we are waiting for your return.’ Failing to acknowledge a colleague’s departure can occasionally be perceived as indifference, making the use of this phrase a subtle yet powerful tool for emotional intelligence in the office.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is using ‘Itterasshai’ toward a superior. Because it functions as a blessing or a wish for someone’s safe return, it is typically used for peers or subordinates. If you are a junior employee sending a manager off, stick to professional phrases like ‘Itte irasshai-mase’ (polite) or simply ‘O-ki o tsukete’ (please take care).
- Use it to Build Rapport: Use this phrase to acknowledge your team’s hard work. When someone leaves for a difficult meeting, adding a smile and a warm ‘Itterasshai’ acts as a morale booster.
- Timing is Everything: Ensure the timing is natural. It should be said just as the person is grabbing their bag or walking toward the door.
- Consistency: By integrating this into your daily routine, you mirror the behavior discussed in What Does ‘Aisatsu’ Mean?, creating a workplace culture of mutual validation.
- Balance it with Professionalism: If the atmosphere is particularly somber or high-stakes, keep the delivery professional and concise, similar to the focus required in What Does ‘Kaigi-chuu’ Mean?, where timing and context define your professional image.
