Respectful Form

尊敬形・そんけいけい

1. Overview

The respectful form (尊敬形) in Japanese is used to express respect and politeness towards others. It is typically used when speaking to elders, superiors, or people with whom one is not familiar, to demonstrate respect for the other person.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Verb (Respectful Form)
  • Noun (Respectful Form)

• Explanation: The respectful form emphasizes respect for others by changing the endings of verbs and nouns. The transformation of verbs often involves altering their endings.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: The respectful form is primarily used in both spoken and written language, and it is especially important in formal settings and social etiquette.

• Translation: It is generally understood as "respectful..." or "polite...".

4. Example Sentences

1. 社長が来られました。
   The president has arrived.

2. 田中さんはお見えになりましたか？
   Has Mr. Tanaka arrived?

3. 彼女は英語を話されます。
   She speaks English.

4. お母様はお元気ですか？
   How is your mother?

5. お名前をお伺いしてもよろしいですか？
   May I ask your name?

5. Alternative Grammar

• Polite Form (丁寧形): Another form of politeness that, while not as strong as the respectful form, still conveys politeness.
  • Example: 食べます (I eat)
    I eat. (polite)

6. Related Grammar

• Humble Form (謙譲形): A self-deprecating form used to express humility about one's actions.
  • Example: 私が伺います。
    I will visit (humbly).

7. Special Respectful Verb List

8. Notes

• Context: The respectful form is used in formal and polite contexts, typically to convey the importance and respect for others in conversation.

• Tone: The respectful form usually carries a strong tone of politeness, effectively promoting good social interactions.

9. Summary

The respectful form is an important grammatical structure in Japanese used to express respect towards others. It emphasizes politeness through the transformation of verbs and nouns and is applicable in various formal and courteous communication situations.