Formal:
* お願いいたします (onegai itashimasu): This is the most polite and formal way to say "please." It's appropriate for situations where you need to make a strong request but want to maintain respect.
* どうかお願いいたします (douka onegai itashimasu): This adds "douka" (please) for a slightly more urgent tone, emphasizing your plea.
* どうしてもお願いいたします (doushitemo onegai itashimasu): This emphasizes "doushitemo" (absolutely, by all means) and is a strong way to say "I beg you."
Informal:
* お願い (onegai): This is the informal way to say "please" and is suitable for close friends or family.
* 頼む (tanomu): This is a more casual way to say "please" and can also mean "count on me" or "rely on me." It can express a slightly more urgent plea.
* 頼みます (tanomimasu): This is the polite form of "頼む" and is appropriate for situations where you need to express urgency but still maintain some respect.
Example:
* お願いいたします。どうかお許しください。(Onegai itashimasu. Douka o yurushi kudasai.) Please, please forgive me.
The best choice depends on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the listener.
Remember:
* Japanese culture values politeness and avoiding direct confrontation.
* It's generally best to start with a polite request and increase the intensity if needed.
* Consider the overall tone of your conversation and choose your words carefully.