Japanese · Greetings & Phrases

お元気ですか

ogenki desu ka

How are you?

Beginnerphrase

Definition

A polite inquiry about someone's well-being. The response is 元気です (genki desu), meaning "I am fine."

Example

お久しぶりです。お元気ですか?

It's been a long time. How are you?

Etymology

'お元気ですか' (ogenki desu ka) comprises '元気' (genki, 'health/energy') with a polite form, conveying concern for someone's wellbeing.

How & Where It’s Used

'お元気ですか' is a formal greeting used primarily in spoken situations, often among acquaintances, inquiring about health or emotions.

Watch “How are you?” pronunciation on YouTube
greetingwellbeingpolite

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