いただきます

expression

expression before eating

humbleexpression

See also: ごちそうさま (after eating)

1. expression said before eating

A set phrase said before eating to express gratitude for the food. Literally means 'I humbly receive.'

いただきます。

I humbly receive this food. (said before eating)

Standard usage

おいしそう！いただきます！

Looks delicious! Let's eat!

手(て)を合(あ)わせていただきます。

I put my hands together and say 'itadakimasu.'

Common gesture before eating

母(はは)が「いただきます」と言(い)って、食(た)べ始(はじ)めました。

My mother said 'itadakimasu' and started eating.

日本(にほん)では食事(しょくじ)の前(まえ)に「いただきます」と言(い)います。みんなそう言(い)います。

In Japan, we say 'itadakimasu' before meals. Everyone says it.

いただきます is a set phrase said before eating, expressing gratitude for the food. It is one of the most fundamental customs in Japanese daily life.

Etymology

From the humble verb いただく (to humbly receive), which is the humble form of もらう. Literally means "I humbly receive."

Cultural note

The gratitude extends to everyone involved: the person who prepared the food, the farmers who grew the ingredients, and the plants and animals that gave their life. Children are taught this phrase from a very young age.

Usage

Often accompanied by pressing the palms together (手(て)を合(あ)わせる)
Said at both formal and casual meals
Paired with ごちそうさまでした (said after eating)

いただきます can also be used when receiving a gift or favor, not just food, as a polite form of "I'll take it" or "thank you for this."

basic

Added 2026.1.7 21:25 · Revised 2026.9.2 11:55

00500/00946_itadakimasu