PrettyFluent
This is just a lesson preview. Get the interactive lesson free on PrettyFluent
🗣️🇬🇧

How to Say ‘Do you speak English?’ in Japanese

英語を話せますか?

えいごをはなせますか?

💬 Usage Tip: Useful for initiating communication in English.

🇯🇵 In Japan: In urban areas, this question is often met with a helpful response.

Phrase Breakdown

英語えいご

English language

Refers to the language English.

Example

英語を勉強します。

I study English.

object marker

A particle indicating the direct object.

Example

りんごを食べます。

I eat an apple.

話せますはなせます

can speak

Indicates the ability to speak.

Example

日本語を話せます。

I can speak Japanese.

question marker

A particle that turns a sentence into a question.

Example

行きますか?

Are you going?

Word-by-Word Breakdown

英語えいご

[eigo]

English

Refers to the English language.

Example

あなたは英語を話せますか?

Can you speak English?

[o]

object marker

A particle marking the object of the action.

Example

日本語を勉強しています。

I am studying Japanese.

話せはなせ

[hanase]

can speak

Expresses the ability to speak.

Example

彼はフランス語を話せます。

He can speak French.

ますます

[masu]

polite verb ending

Indicates politeness in speech.

Example

水を飲みます。

I drink water.

[ka]

question marker

Turns a statement into a question.

Example

これは何ですか?

What is this?

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Custom Scenarios

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Download PrettyFluent on the App StoreGet Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.

Mia S., 25, English Teacher

Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.

Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer

I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.

Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager