"～てほしい" (te hoshii) is used when you want someone to do something for you. It is commonly used among friends and family. It is generally not used for superiors.
「～てもらいたい」has a similar meaning and usage.
When asking a superior, use ～ていただきます (or polite request forms).
Use the Te-form of the verb before "ほしい". Mark the person you want to do the action with "に".
Verb Conjugation
| Dictionary Form | 「て」 + ほしい | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 教(おし)える | 教えてほしい | want (someone) to teach |
| 待(ま)つ | 待ってほしい | want (someone) to wait |
| 来(く)る | 来てほしい | want (someone) to come |
田中さん に、 明日早く 来てほしい です。
たなかさんに、あしたはやくきてほしいです。
I want Tanaka-san to come early tomorrow.
先生 に 英語を 教えてほしい です。
せんせいにえいごをおしえてほしいです。
I want the teacher to teach me English.
Comparison Summary
| Expression | Used For | Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| ～てほしい | Family / Friends / Subordinates | Desire/Wish |
| ～てもらいたい | Family / Friends / Subordinates | Desire/Wish (slightly indirect) |
| ～ていただきたい | Superiors | Polite desire |
⚡ Practice Quiz
Check your understanding「～てほしい」!