How to Say ‘Can you work the night shift?’ in Japanese
夜勤はできますか。
yakin wa deki masu ka
[yakin wa deki masu ka]
💬 Usage Tip: [は] here is said (wa), not (ha). In [夜勤はできますか], [は] highlights "as for night shifts," so the question is specifically about that part of the job.
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is a standard, polite interview question about availability. A plain yes/no is understandable, but a fuller answer like [はい、できます] or [難しいです] sounds more natural.
Phrase Breakdown
夜勤
yakin
[yakin]
night shift
Nighttime work in a care facility. This is a common topic in caregiver job interviews.
前の職場で夜勤をしました。
I did night shifts at my previous workplace.
は
wa
[wa]
topic marker
A particle that marks the topic of the sentence. Here, it highlights 'night shift' as the topic being asked about.
私は夜勤は大丈夫です。
As for night shifts, I am okay with them.
できますか
deki masu ka
can you do?
Polite question asking whether someone is able to do something.
手伝えますか。
Can you help?
Words in this phrase
でき
deki
[deki]
can do; be able to
The stem of できる, used to express capability. In interviews, it is often used to talk about work availability.
一人で対応できるように勉強します。
I study so that I can handle it by myself.
ます
masu
[masu]
polite verb ending
A formal ending attached to verb stems, appropriate in respectful and professional speech.
説明できます。
I can explain it.
か
ka
[ka]
question marker
A sentence-final particle used to ask a question politely.
夜勤はできますか。
Can you do night shifts?
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager