“Kekkodesu”
(Guests are supposed to say, “Kekko-na Otemae-de Gozaimashita.”)
(“Kekko-na Ochawan-de Gozaimasu-ne,” appreciating the tea bowl.)
If you are one of fans of Japanese culture, you know what “Tea Ceremony” is? Japanese tea ceremony is called “Sado.” “Sa” comes from “Cha (tea)” while “Do” means “the way.” The Way of Tea – that’s what it is. During the ceremony, guests appreciate the time, space, atmosphere, host, host’s service, tea itself, host’s skills of tea ceremony, and the tea bowl, as you see in the picture above. After you are through with tea, you are supposed to appriciate the bowl you hold and say, “Kekko-na Ochawan….” Then, you say to your host(ess), “Kekko-na Otemae ….” to appreciate your host(ess)’s service and skillfulness. In this case, “Kekko” means “Admirable” or “Formidable.” The Japanese tend to say “Kekkodesu(ne)” or “Kekkona …” very often to praise something.
On the other hand, you say, “Kekkodesu” when you politely decline someone’s offer.
At dinner table as a guest –
Hostess: “Okawari-wa Ikagadesuka.” [“Would you like another help?”]
You: “Moo Onaka-ga Ippai-nanode Kekkodesu.” [“No thank you, mum. I am full.”]
(Join some Tea Ceremony and use the expression, “Kekko…”)
When you learn the usage of “Kekko” and actually use it properly, you will show you have moved up to the next level in Japanese! Good luck!
