Direct answer
日本語 · Japanese phrasing with romanization and natural tone notes.
助けてください
Romanization
Tasukete kudasai
Pronunciation
tah-soo-keh-teh koo-dah-sigh
Emergency · Japanese
How to say “help me” in Japanese
Learn how to say "help me" in Japanese: 助けてください (Tasukete kudasai), with pronunciation, usage notes, examples, and related phrases.
polite
When to use it
Use it when clarity matters more than perfect grammar. Say it directly, repeat it if needed, and point to the situation when possible. 助けてください is clear and urgent. 助けて is shorter and more direct in an emergency.
Examples
助けてください！
Help me!
誰か助けてください！
Somebody help me!
Common mistakes
Do not translate "help me" word by word; use the full Japanese phrase as a unit.
Use romanization as a pronunciation hint, not as the normal written form.
Check the tone before using it: this version is marked polite.
FAQ
How do you say "help me" in Japanese?
Say 助けてください. The romanization is Tasukete kudasai, and the pronunciation is tah-soo-keh-teh koo-dah-sigh.
Is 助けてください formal or casual?
This version is marked polite. 助けてください is clear and urgent. 助けて is shorter and more direct in an emergency.
When should I use "help me" in Japanese?
Use it when clarity matters more than perfect grammar. Say it directly, repeat it if needed, and point to the situation when possible. 助けてください is clear and urgent. 助けて is shorter and more direct in an emergency.