itterasshai

Itterasshai is a common Japanese farewell phrase. It is typically said by the person remaining at home or at a location to the person who is leaving. The phrase literally translates to something akin to "go and come back" or "go and you'll be back." It conveys a sense of wishing the departing person a safe journey and an expectation of their return.

The phrase is a contraction of the more formal "itte irasshai" (行ってらっしゃい). "Itte" comes from the verb "iku" (行く), meaning "to go," and "irasshai" is a polite imperative form of the verb "irassharu" (いらっしゃる), which is an honorific verb meaning "to come," "to go," or "to be." Therefore, the full phrase carries a polite nuance of telling someone to go and assuring them that their return is anticipated.

Itterasshai is used in various everyday situations, such as when a family member leaves for work or school, or when a friend departs after visiting. It's a polite and friendly way to acknowledge someone's departure and express goodwill. The person leaving will usually respond with "Ittekimasu" (行ってきます), meaning "I'm going and will come back." This exchange is a fundamental part of Japanese social etiquette regarding farewells.