1.
take care of yourself; get well soon; look after yourself
A set expression said to someone who is sick, injured, or about to visit a doctor. Conveys a wish for recovery and concern for the person's health.
A standard expression of concern for someone who is ill or injured. Literally means "please treat yourself as important." Used across all social contexts, from casual to formal.
Forms
- お大事に: standard form, widely used
- お大事になさってください: more polite/formal version
- お大事にしてください: polite version
- お大事にね: casual, friendly version
Usage
- When someone says they are sick or feeling unwell
- When visiting someone in the hospital
- When a patient leaves the doctor's office (commonly said by medical staff)
- In get-well messages and cards
Cultural note
This is the standard Japanese equivalent of "get well soon." Doctors, nurses, and pharmacy staff routinely say お大事に or お大事になさってください to patients. It is not used for minor inconveniences or non-health-related problems.