Translation guide
How to ask for permission to enter a room or space in Japanese, with attention to politeness and context.
Politely asking if you may enter a room, office, or home.
Standard polite way to ask 'May I come in?'. Literally 'Is it okay if I enter?'. Suitable for most everyday situations.
入ってもいいですか。
May I come in?
Used when entering a room, especially in business or formal settings. Literally 'Excuse me (for intruding)'. Often said as you enter, rather than as a question beforehand.
失礼します。
Excuse me (as I enter).
Used when entering someone's home or personal space. Literally 'I'm disturbing you'. Shows humility and politeness.
お邪魔します。
Sorry to intrude (as I enter).
Very formal and polite. Suitable for highly respectful situations, such as entering a superior's office.
入ってもよろしいでしょうか。
Would it be all right if I came in?
The common sequence of knocking and saying something when entering.
In many offices, you knock twice, wait a moment, then say 失礼します as you open the door and enter. This is a set routine.
（コンコン）失礼します。
(Knock knock) Excuse me.
入ってもいいですか is a direct question asking for permission before entering. 失礼します is a set phrase said upon entering, often without waiting for a response. In many business settings, the knock + 失礼します combination is standard.
入ってもいいですか。
May I come in? (asking permission)
失礼します。
Excuse me. (as you enter)
In Japanese culture, entering a room often involves more than words. Remove shoes if entering a home, slide doors quietly, and bow slightly when saying 失礼します.