Understanding Honorific and Humble Language in Japanese

What is Honorific Language (Keigo)?

In the Japanese language, Keigo refers to the set of linguistic features used to convey respect. This respectful language is divided into three distinct categories: sonkeigo (尊敬語), kenjougo (謙譲語), and teineigo (丁寧語). Understanding Keigo is crucial when interacting in Japanese society, where respect and hierarchy play a prominent role in communication.

Sonkeigo: Respectful Language

Sonkeigo is used to show respect towards others when discussing their actions or attributes. It often involves changing verbs and utilizing specific honorific expressions. For example, instead of saying 食べる (taberu - to eat), one would use 召し上がる (meshiagaru) to show respect to the subject.

Kenjougo: Humble Language

Kenjougo is utilized to humble the speaker themselves while referring to their own actions. This form of language demonstrates humility in the presence of others. For instance, the humble form of 言う (iu - to say) is 申し上げる (moushiageru), showing deference when speaking about oneself.

Teineigo: Polite Language

Teineigo encompasses the polite expressions used in everyday situations, ensuring a basic level of respect and formality. This involves using polite verb endings such as ~ます (masu) and ~です (desu). It is widely used in supermarkets, on television, and in any public interaction.

For example, "I eat" can be stated as 食べます (tabemasu), employing the polite form of the verb.

When to Use Honorific and Humble Language

It's important to discern when to use each type of Keigo appropriately. Sonkeigo should be used when referring to the actions of those in higher status, like superiors or customers. Kenjougo is for expressing humility in contrast to those of higher status when referring to oneself. Teineigo is a universal polite form, suitable for interacting with strangers or in polite society.

Practical Tips for Using Keigo

• Listen to native speakers and mimic respectful forms.
• Practice switching between casual and polite forms in everyday situations.
• Engage in role-playing scenarios with language partners.
• Utilize language learning apps with Keigo practice.