Understanding basic Japanese expressions

Let's look at some indispensable words and phrases that crop up in conversations all the time.

Literally translated as "I will receive" or "I will take", itadakimasu is a phrase used before a meal to express appreciation for the food about to be eaten. In a restaurant, everyone will say it before they begin their meal. At home, it is said to the person who prepared the food. It is used in a similar way to the French term, bon appetite. For example...
"Itadakimasu" "Hai dozo" (The person who prepared the food replies to everyone's thanks, signaling that the meal can begin)

	The person who has prepared the food says meshiagare to signal that the meal is ready to be eaten. The word is derived from the verb meshiagaru, which means "to eat/drink" or "to have". It is commonly used in answer to itadakimasu, for example... "Itadakimasu" "Dozo, meshiagare" ("Please help yourself" or "Please start eating")
	While similar to the English expression "cheers", kanpai has more of a celebratory meaning and is used when people want to toast someone. It can mean "Here's to you", or "Bottoms up" or "Good health". Kanpai is also used to celebrate a special event or perhaps the completion of a business project. The phrase is accompanied by everyone raising a glass in celebration.
	Okawari is used when you have finished your rice or soup and want another serving. It is quite a casual term when used on its own and is not normally used in a restaurant. Common usage would include... "Okawari wa ikagadesuka?" (Polite form of saying "Would you like a refill?") "Okawari dozo" ("Please feel free to help yourself to more") "Okawari wo kudasai" (Seconds please)
	It is polite to say gochisosama at the end of a meal. The word gochiso means feast or banquet, and gochisosama serves to thank the chef or the person paying for the meal and express enjoyment for the quality of the food. For example... "Gochisosama deshita" ("I really enjoyed the meal, thank you")