お話
Meanings
1
Polite noun for a story or tale, often used when speaking to or about someone of higher status, or in formal settings. The base noun is 話 (はなし).
The teacher told us an interesting story from the past.
I made a picture book from the story I heard from my grandmother.
2
Honorific form of 話, used to refer politely to someone's talk, discussion, or what they have to say. Often used in business or formal conversation.
The department head's talk was very informative.
I'm sorry to interrupt your discussion, but may I have a moment?
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉とお話をするto have a talk/chat with someone
I had a short talk with the teacher.
- 〈人〉のお話をうかがうto (respectfully) listen to someone's talk or account
I listened to the president's talk.
- 〈人〉にお話があるto have something to discuss with someone
Manager, I have something I'd like to discuss with you.
- 〈人〉にお話を聞かせるto tell someone a story
The grandmother told the children a story.