いってきます

いってきます

(Lit.) I'll go and come back, 'I'm going, see you later'

JLPT N2

Meaning and Usage

"いってきます" is a common Japanese phrase used when leaving home or a place temporarily. It literally means "I'll go and come back," expressing the intention to return soon. It is a polite and warm way to say goodbye to people staying behind.

Context and Register

This phrase is typically used in casual to polite settings among family members, friends, or coworkers. It is not formal but is very common in daily life. It implies a temporary departure rather than a permanent goodbye.

Common Collocations and Patterns

  • 「いってきます」: standard phrase when leaving home.
  • 「いってきますね」: adds a soft nuance, often used with close people.
  • 「いってきます!」: energetic or cheerful tone.

Cultural Note

When someone says "いってきます," the usual response is "いってらっしゃい," meaning "Please go and come back safely." This call-and-response is a daily ritual in many Japanese households.

Learner Tips

Avoid confusing "いってきます" with just "いく" (to go). "いってきます" specifically implies you will return. Also, it is not used when leaving permanently or for long trips without a clear return plan.

Example Sentences

あさ、いえをでるときに「いってきます」といいます。

In the morning, when leaving the house, we say 'Ittekimasu.'

こどもががっこうにいくときに「いってきます」とげんきにいった。

The child cheerfully said 'Ittekimasu' when going to school.

ともだちのいえにあそびにいくときも「いってきます」ということがおおいです。

It is also common to say 'Ittekimasu' when going to a friend's house.