お〜・ご〜

Respectful Prefix

1. Overview

「お〜」 and 「ご〜」 are prefixes in Japanese used to express respect or politeness. They are typically placed before nouns to elevate the level of politeness, commonly used in formal settings or when addressing elders and superiors.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • お + Noun
  • ご + Noun

• Explanation:

  • お: Generally used before native Japanese words (Wago).
  • ご: Typically used before Sino-Japanese words (Kango).

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: Both prefixes can combine with various nouns to show respect toward people or things. The choice of prefix usually depends on the origin of the noun.

• Translation: There isn't a direct translation in Chinese, but it can be understood as "respectful..." or "polite...".

4. Example Sentences

1. お名前は何ですか？
   What is your name?

2. ご飯を食べましたか？
   Have you eaten?

3. お土産をいただきました。
   I received your souvenir.

4. ご連絡をお待ちしております。
   I look forward to your contact.

5. お客様、こちらへどうぞ。
   Dear customer, please come this way.

5. Substitute Grammar

• 〜さん: Also used to show respect to a person, but more general and not limited to nouns.
  • Example: 田中さんに会いました。
    I met Mr. Tanaka.

6. Related Grammar

• 〜さま: A more respectful title than 「お」 and 「ご」, typically used in very formal situations.
  • Example: お客様は神様です。
    The customer is God.

7. Notes

• Context: 「お」 and 「ご」 should be used in formal or polite contexts, usually when interacting with unfamiliar or higher-status individuals.

• Tone: This expression carries a strong tone of politeness and is often an essential part of daily communication.

8. Summary

「お〜」 and 「ご〜」 are prefixes used in Japanese to convey respect and politeness, applicable to various nouns. They play an important role in social and cultural contexts, conveying the speaker's respect toward the listener.