Welcome to the Nihongo Lesson feature. We strive to give you useful manga-based Japanese language tips and maybe even a glimpse into the translation process. This week’s lesson once again focuses on Naruto! As one of Shonen Jump’s greatest series reaches its emotional conclusion, let’s take a look at how Masashi Kishimoto’s fellow mangaka expressed their feelings on the author comments page.

OTSUKARESAMA DESHITA
(おつかれさまでした)

If you read this week’s author comments page, you’ll see pretty much all of the Shonen Jump mangaka using the phrase above. OTSUKARESAMA DESHITA has no direct English equivalent but is super convenient for many situations. The phrase basically acknowledges the hard work that someone has put in and simultaneously thanks them for it. It’s commonly heard at the end of a long workday as employees leave the office. I wish my Team Jump mates would use this phrase on me, but perhaps I just don’t work hard enough...

Looking at the 67+ volumes of Naruto manga on my shelf and remembering all the wonderful memories this series has given me over the years fills me with a strong urge to join these manga artists and offer a sincere OTSUKARESAME DESHITA to Kishimoto Sensei. He’s earned it! In an interview last year, he talked about how he had never gotten to go on his honeymoon because of the rough serialization schedule. Hopefully he and his wife finally get the trip they deserve! Just avoid the Hidden Sand Village, it looks way too hot and dry.

And as Kishimoto Sensei said in his comments, this is also a moment of gratitude toward all the fans who have supported Naruto over the years. Thanks for being such wonderful fans! ARIGATO!

Get more tips by listening to our PODCAST!