Translated literally, Maido means always, constantly, or every time in Japanese. This phrase is sometimes considered to Kansai-dialect, and is more commonly used by people from cities such as Osaka. It’s meaning is close to “itsumo” or “maikai”, which also mean always or every time in Japanese.

For example, you can say “Maido osewa ni natteorimasu” to someone that you are indebted to as to thank them for their continued support. This phrase can be used as a greeting, and is often used in the form of just “Maido”.

While maido can be used in a variety of phrases, it is very commonly used as a part of the set phrase: “Maido arigatougozaimasu.” This means “Thank you for your continued patronage.” in Japanese. This is often shortened as “Maido ari”, or similarly to “Maido osewa ni natteorimasu”, sometimes just “Maido”. When it is shortened to just “Maido” context is used to determine what the phrase means.

The phrase “Maido arigatougozaimasu” is commonly heard being said by store clerks while shopping.

Let’s remember the following useful sentences before going to Japan!

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●Maido arigatougozaimasu!
(毎度ありがとうございます！)
> Thank you for your continued patronage!

●Maido osewa ni natteorimasu.
(毎度お世話になっております。)
> Thank you for always taking care of me.

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Now all that’s left is to go out there and try using them in Japan!

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Uketsuke (受付) Fun! Japan Words vol.159