Ask John: How to Say “Good-bye” in Japanese

Question:
How the heck do you say “good-bye” in Japanese?

Answer:
There are actually several ways to say “good-bye” in Japanese, and each term has a slightly different significance and relevance to the situation in which it’s used.

sayonara- the general, all-purpose “good-bye.” Depending on how it’s said, “sayonara” can mean “good-bye” or “good-bye forever.” Its 4 syllable length and relative formality make it suitable for weighty significance in certain usages. For example, in the Yamamoto Yohko TV series, Momiji notices that Lawson suggests a final parting when he uses “sayonara” instead of his usual “oyasumi” (good night).

abayo- this word is similar to “see ya” in English. It suggests “I’ll see you later,” and is often used as an informal good-bye between friends. Furthermore, in Dragonball Z, when Android 18 uses this term toward Kurillin the first time they meet and part, it suggests suspicion (does she mean that she’s really coming back for him? Is she suggesting that she’ll return later to kill him?) In Gall Force 3 it suggests cruel irony. Lufy says “abayo” to her friends, knowing that she’s leaving for a suicide mission and will not actually see her partners again. Her use of the term also suggests the “eternal story” theme of reincarnation and the circular nature of time that permeates the Gall Force saga. When Lufy says “abayo,” she means, “So long, we’ll meet again in another life.”

Ja ne (or simply “Ja”)- this is a short, essentially slang term roughly equivalent to “Bye,” in English. It can be used as a brief courtesy or as a curt, abrupt conclusion.