Japanese Forgiveness: Practice Speaking with Native Phrases

Understanding the Key Expressions

Before you speak, let's look at the core phrases. The first is «許します。», which means 'I forgive you.' It is a direct, formal statement. Use it when you have decided to forgive after a sincere apology. The second is «水に流しましょう。», meaning 'Let's let bygones be bygones.' This is a set phrase to suggest moving past an issue. It can be polite or casual depending on the ending. The third is «今回は許しますが、次はありません。», which means 'I forgive you this time, but there won't be a next time.' This grants forgiveness but also sets a clear boundary. Finally, «信頼を取り戻しましょう。» means 'Let's rebuild trust.' It focuses on the future relationship. These four phrases are your building blocks. Listen to each recording carefully, repeat aloud, and notice the tone. In the next sections, you will use them in short exchanges.

Putting Phrases into a Dialogue

Now let's see how these phrases work in a conversation. In the recording «先日は本当に申し訳ありませんでした。どうか許してください。», speaker A says, 'I am truly sorry about the other day. Please forgive me.' This is a sincere apology. Speaker B responds in «わかりました。今回は許します。でも、次はありませんよ。»: 'I understand. I forgive you this time. But there won't be a next time.' Notice how B uses a version of the forgiveness phrase with a warning. Then A says in «ありがとうございます。信頼を取り戻せるよう努力します。», 'Thank you. I will do my best to regain your trust.' This shows a commitment to rebuild trust. Finally, B says in «では、水に流しましょう。これからもよろしくお願いします。», 'Then let's let bygones be bygones. I look forward to your continued support.' This uses the 'let bygones be bygones' phrase to close the issue positively. This dialogue shows a full cycle: apology, conditional forgiveness, promise to rebuild trust, and moving on. You will practice both roles.

Speaking Advice for These Phrases

When you speak, pay attention to politeness and tone. «許します。» is formal and direct; use it when you are ready to forgive. «水に流しましょう。» is a set phrase; say it smoothly as one unit. «今回は許しますが、次はありません。» includes a warning, so use a serious tone. «信頼を取り戻しましょう。» is forward-looking; sound positive and cooperative. In the dialogue, «先日は本当に申し訳ありませんでした。どうか許してください。» is a sincere apology, so speak humbly. «わかりました。今回は許します。でも、次はありませんよ。» grants forgiveness but with a boundary, so be firm but not harsh. «ありがとうございます。信頼を取り戻せるよう努力します。» expresses determination, so sound earnest. «では、水に流しましょう。これからもよろしくお願いします。» is friendly and closing, so use a warm tone. Practice each line slowly, then at natural speed. Record yourself if possible and compare with the native audio. Remember, you can play both roles, but there is no automatic assessment. Check your own pronunciation and intonation.

Listen once, then say the phrase yourself. Slow playback keeps the original pitch.

Checking available voices…

Read one side aloud, then answer in your own words. The goal is to make the exchange yours.

Common questions