okarishimasu

Okarishimasu is a Japanese phrase commonly used when returning home. It is typically said by the person entering their house after being out. The literal translation is often rendered as "I have returned" or "I'm home." This expression serves as a polite acknowledgement of one's arrival and can be directed towards family members or other occupants of the residence.

The counterpart to okarishimasu is okaeri nasai, which is the greeting offered to the person returning home. It translates to "Welcome back" or "Welcome home." The exchange between okarishimasu and okaeri nasai forms a customary social ritual within Japanese households, signifying the completion of a period away and the return to a familiar environment. While most often associated with returning to one's own home, the phrase can also be used in a broader sense to indicate returning to a place one is familiar with or has temporary access to, such as a workplace or a friend's house. Its usage emphasizes politeness and consideration for others.