Informal and formal conversations (keigo)

[GoldCoinLover]

I saw what was hard in japanese, and politeness corresnponds right up there with japanese. Since im a beginner, I dont know too many phrases which use extreme politeness, such as o in 'ogenki desu ka', which is seem as polite.

Can someone explaint he levels of keigo? For example, when I was talking to some japanese, I heard they mention it. Hmm. What is the difference between inf ormal and formal, is one more direct way of saying something?

For example, I pretty sure you'd refer to your boss as a more polite than your friend, where you have casual speech. Thanks

 

[Buntaro]

Gold,

As I understand it, there nine levels of politeness, three of which are used everyday. Since you are a beginning Japanese student, you only have to remember one thing: Use the ~masu, ~masen, and ~mashita forms. (Also, always use "desu".) This will keep you out of trouble.

 

[NANGI]

Konnichiwa GoldCoinLover-san!

Keigo is very difficult but don't worry, because most of all Japanese people can't use Keigo correctly.

The foundation of polite word is, Buntaro-san already said, -desu and -masu. You should add -desu or -masu to the end of words.

instance
Do you have a X-360? Yes, I have a X-360.
Anata ha X-360 wo Motte imasu ka? Hai, X-360 wo Motte imasu.

You can answer "Motte iru" simply, but "Motte imasu" is more polite.
In Japan, this rule is called "Desumasu-chou". "-chou" means a "tone". I think you should keep this rule in mind always.

You should add -san to the end of person's name.

instance
Konnichiwa GoldCoinLover-san!

You should not call one's first name, especially formal place. Japanese call each other's name by family name but not first name. Calling one's first name show affection, but sometimes calling one's first name express a contempt in Japan. And you must not use -kun or -chan to adult. -kun and -chan is used
for a child or subordinate.

When use polite word? You should use polite word to a senior, first meeting person, teacher, and your boss.

And this is the most important, you should add "Sumimasen" at first or end.

NANGI