Why do Japanese people say “Itadakimasu” and “Gochisousama deshita”?

Why do Japanese people say “Itadakimasu” and “Gochisousama deshita”?

Ridley : Before every meal, Japanese people say “Itadakimasu.” And after eating, they say “Gochisousama deshita.” It sounds polite…but is it just good manners?   日本では食事の前に『いただきます』、終わったら『ごちそうさまでした』と言いますよね。 とても丁寧な言葉だけど、マナー以上の意味があるんですか?...
Why do Japanese people say “sumimasen” so much?

Why do Japanese people say “sumimasen” so much?

Ridley : I hear Japanese people say “sumimasen” all the time – when they apologise, when they thank someone, even when calling a waiter. What does it really mean? 日本では、みんなが『すみません』とよく言う気がします。謝るときも、お礼を言うときも、店員さんを呼ぶときも。 あれって、どういう意味なんですか?    ...