Japanese Honorific Language
敬語・けいご
1. Overview
Keigo is a form of expression in the Japanese language designed to show politeness through respectful and humble language. It is primarily used in formal situations, interactions with superiors or elders, and in contexts that require demonstrating respect towards others.
2. Structure
Keigo is generally categorized into three main types:
- Sonkeigo (尊敬語): Used to express respect for others, elevating their status.
- Kenjougo (謙譲語): Used to lower one's own status, expressing humility.
- Teineigo (丁寧語): A general polite form often used in everyday conversation, typically ending with "です" or "ます."
3. Usage Explanation
The use of keigo depends on the social relationship between the speakers, the formality of the situation, and the identity of the speaker. It is essential to consider the status of the person being addressed and the context to ensure that the language used is appropriate.
4. Example Sentences
-
Sonkeigo:
- 先生はいらっしゃいますか？
(Is the teacher here?)
-
Kenjougo:
-
Teineigo:
- 明日、会議があります。
(There is a meeting tomorrow.)
5. Common Examples of Respectful and Humble Language
| Plain Form |
Sonkeigo (尊敬語) |
Kenjougo (謙譲語) |
| 行く |
いらっしゃる |
参る (まいる) |
| 来る |
いらっしゃる |
伺う (うかがう) |
| する |
なさる |
いたす |
| 言う |
おっしゃる |
申す (もうす) |
| 食べる |
召し上がる |
頂く (いただく) |
| 見る |
ご覧になる |
拝見する (はいけんする) |
| 知っている |
ご存知です |
存じ上げている (ぞんじあげている) |
| 教える |
教えてくださる |
教え申し上げる |
| 飲む |
召し上がる |
頂く (いただく) |
| 聞く |
お聞きになる |
伺う (うかがう) |
| 寝る |
お休みになる |
休ませていただく |
| 使う |
お使いになる |
使わせていただく |
| 働く |
お働きになる |
働かせていただく |
| 買う |
お買い求めになる |
買わせていただく |
| 作る |
お作りになる |
作らせていただく |
| 住む |
お住まいになる |
住まわせていただく |
| 見せる |
お見せになる |
拝見させていただく |
| 相談する |
ご相談いただく |
相談申し上げる |
| 笑う |
お笑いになる |
笑わせていただく |
| 読む |
お読みになる |
読ませていただく |
| 遊ぶ |
お遊びになる |
遊ばせていただく |
6. Important Points
- When using keigo, it is crucial to adjust expressions based on the listener's status and context.
- Different verbs will have varying forms in keigo; it is important to choose the correct one.
- In writing, the use of keigo is especially important, as it reflects the speaker's politeness and upbringing.
7. Similar Grammar
- Teineigo (丁寧語): Polite language that is often used alongside keigo but is less formal.
- Example: あの人は行きます。
(That person is going.)
8. Alternative Grammar
- Plain Form (普通体): The ordinary language style commonly used in daily conversation, relative to formal occasions.
- Example: 行く → 行く (plain form).
9. Summary
- Keigo is an important linguistic feature in Japanese culture used to express respect and humility toward others.
- Correct use of keigo can help establish good social relationships and enhance the politeness of communication.