行ってらっしゃい

itte rasshai
see you later

「行ってらっしゃい!」と母が言った。

“See you later!” Mom said.


What It Really Means
A warm, casual farewell wishing someone a safe return
Literal Meaning
Please go and come back safely
Literal Breakdown
行ってgo+らっしゃいplease (honorific)
Mental Image
A mental picture of someone leaving a home or familiar place, with the speaker wishing them a safe journey and return.
When to Use
A parent says it to a child heading to school in the morning, or a spouse to their partner leaving for work.
Cultural Note
Reflects the Japanese value of harmony (和, wa) and mutual care. The exchange of 「行ってらっしゃい」 and 「行ってきます」 reinforces social bonds and expectations of safe return.
informal

A farewell phrase said to someone leaving, wishing them a safe and pleasant journey

「行ってらっしゃい、気をつけてね!」

“See you later, take care!”

「行ってらっしゃいませ」と店員がお客さんに声をかけた。

The clerk said to the customer, “See you later.”

Often used in casual or family settings. The response is usually 「行ってきます」 (I’m going and will come back).

Related Phrases

行ってきますphrase
I’m going (response)
ただいまphrase
I’m home (response)
おかえりなさいphrase
welcome home (response)

Pro Tip

Response to 行ってらっしゃい

Reply with 「行ってきます」 (I’m going) when leaving. This exchange is a common social ritual in Japan.

Gold Rule

When to use 行ってらっしゃい

Use when someone is leaving for a short, temporary absence (e.g., work, school, shopping). Not for permanent goodbyes.

Word Origin

Derived from the verb 「行く」 (to go) + the polite imperative 「いらっしゃい」 (please go/come). The phrase literally means 'please go and come back safely,' reflecting the cultural value of safe return.

Usage Notes

Typically used when someone is leaving for a short time (e.g., going to work, school, or a nearby errand). Avoid using it for long-term departures or farewells.

Word Breakdown

行って
te-form of 行く (to go)
verb
+
らっしゃい
polite imperative of いらっしゃる (to go/come, honorific)
verb
和英辞典