Understanding Keigo: Respectful and Humble Language in Japanese

When you learn about Keigo, or honorific language, you will find two main types: Sonkeigo and Kenjougo. Both are very important because they help show respect and humility in Japanese conversations. Let's break down the differences to help you understand these forms of Japanese grammar better.

Definitions

Sonkeigo (尊敬語): This means "respectful language." You use it to honor someone else's actions or status. It shows that you respect the person you are talking to.

Kenjougo (謙譲語): This translates to "humble language." It means you lower your own status or actions when talking about yourself. It's especially useful when you need to show humility.

Key Differences

1. Purpose of Usage

   • Sonkeigo: You use this to show respect to someone else. It highlights their achievements or status.
     • Example: Instead of saying “to do” (する), use “nasu” (なさる) when talking about what someone else does.
   • Kenjougo: This is about being humble. It shifts the focus away from yourself.
     • Example: Instead of using the plain “to do” (する), say “itasu” (いたす) when talking about your own actions.

2. Formality Level

   • Both Sonkeigo and Kenjougo can change based on how formal the situation is.
   • Sonkeigo is often used in formal situations, like business meetings, where politeness matters a lot.
   • Kenjougo is usually used when someone lower in rank speaks to someone higher up.

3. Perspective

   • Sonkeigo focuses on the listener or the person you’re talking about. It’s meant to lift them up in conversation.
   • Kenjougo is about the speaker’s actions. It aims to downplay what the speaker does.

Examples

Let’s look at a simple situation: making a request.

• If you want to politely ask someone to "have a seat," using Sonkeigo, you might say:
  • “O suwari nasaru” (お座りなさる): This shows respect to the listener.
• When you say you will "take care of" something, using Kenjougo, you might say:
  • “Watashi ga itasimasu” (私がいたします): Here, you are lowering your own status in relation to the listener.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Sonkeigo and Kenjougo is key to mastering Japanese honorifics. By practicing these forms in the right situations, you will be better prepared to communicate in Japanese, both socially and professionally.

Summary Points

• Sonkeigo: Used to uplift others and show respect.
• Kenjougo: Used to downplay oneself and show humility.
• Situational Use: Know when to use which to stay polite.

As you develop your Japanese skills, keeping these differences in mind will help you communicate better and show respect for the language and culture. With practice, using both Sonkeigo and Kenjougo will feel natural in your conversations.