
Question
I’ve recently started a job in Japan and often have to answer the office phone. One common request I hear is from clients wanting to speak to certain colleagues. How do I respond with “Please hold while I transfer your call” in Japanese?

Japango Editor Team
おつなぎしますので、そのままお待ちください。
Otsunagi shimasu node, sono mama omachi kudasai.
Please hold while I transfer your call.
This is a polite and standard phrase to use when asking someone to hold on a call in a Japanese business setting. Otsunagi shimasu means “I will transfer (the call)”. Sono mama means “as you are” or “just like that”, and omachi kudasai means “please wait”.
When on the phone in Japan, it’s important to maintain politeness and professionalism. You can use this expression when transferring the call to ensure the caller knows what to expect. Remember to speak clearly and calmly!