Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Respect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "respect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
そんちょう
そんちょう (sonchou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
敬う
うやまう (uyamau)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "respect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between そんちょう and 敬う.
In Japanese, そんちょう (そんちょう (sonchou)) is typically associated with "respect" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Can be a noun.
On the other hand, 敬う (うやまう (uyamau)) maps to "respect; honor; revere; show respect to elders/superiors" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to showing deep respect, honor, or reverence toward elders, teachers, ancestors, superiors, or gods. Often used as 敬われる. A literal translation of "respect" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "そんちょう"
相手の意見を尊重することが大切です。
It is important to respect others' opinions.
Bilingual Context for "敬う"
年長者を_______ことは、多くの文化において道徳的な義務とされています。
Respecting elders is considered a moral duty in many cultures.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "相手の意見を尊重することが大切です。" (Meaning: "It is important to respect others' opinions.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "そんちょう" fits here because it means "respect" in the context of: "It is important to respect others' opinions.". "敬う" represents "respect; honor; revere; show respect to elders/superiors".