In learning a new language, it’s important to know how to express your physical state. One of the common feelings we often need to communicate is being cold. It could be a chilly winter day, an overly air-conditioned room, or a cold wind sweeping by. In this post, we’ll learn how to say “I’m cold” in Japanese, along with a few additional phrases that might come in handy.
#1. 寒い (Samui)
The most direct way to say “I’m cold” in Japanese is “Samui.” This term can be used to describe both the weather and your personal feeling of being cold.
#2. 冷えている (Hiete iru)
Another phrase to express that you’re feeling cold is “Hiete iru,” which translates to “I’m feeling chilled.”
Let’s explore how to use these expressions in different situations:
In a Casual Setting
When hanging out with friends or speaking in an informal context, you can simply say:
寒いね。 (Samui ne.) This means, “It’s cold, isn’t it?”
In a Professional Setting
In professional situations, or when speaking with someone you’re not overly familiar with, a more polite expression would be appropriate:
すみません、冷えています。 (Sumimasen, hieteimasu.) This translates to “Excuse me, I’m feeling cold.”
In an Educational Setting
When expressing discomfort due to coldness in an academic environment, such as a classroom, you could say:
すみません、寒いです。 (Sumimasen, samui desu.) This means, “Excuse me, it’s cold.”
Expressing discomfort in Japanese is a delicate art. Japanese people tend to avoid direct complaints, so stating your discomfort can sometimes be seen as impolite. It’s important to phrase your statements carefully and consider the context in which you’re speaking.
Just as you would learn how to say “I’m full,” “I’m bored,” or “Can you speak English” in Japanese, knowing how to communicate your physical discomfort due to coldness is a crucial part of language learning. It not only facilitates better communication but also helps you navigate various social situations more comfortably.
So the next time you feel a shiver running down your spine, remember these handy phrases. By saying “Samui” or “Hiete iru,” you can express your discomfort and maybe even find a way to warm up. Just remember, it’s always best to deliver these phrases with a smile, as politeness is a cornerstone of Japanese communication.
