A word used when starting a meal. The word is meant to show gratitude for the food in front of you and for the people who cooked for you. It’s a daily used phrase in Japan.

A word used at the end of a meal. Same as Itadaki-masu, it shows gratitude for the food and for the people who prepared the meal.

This word is used on so many occasions. For example, when asking others for a favor, or when meeting and greeting someone for the first time. It’s very close to saying ‘Thanks in advance’.