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
敬意
けいい (keii)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "respect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between そんちょう and 敬意.
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, 敬意 (けいい (keii)) maps to "respect; honor; homage" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to feelings of respect, honor, or homage shown toward someone. Often used with 敬意を表する. 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 "敬意"
素晴らしい業績を残した先輩に、心からの敬意を表します。
I express my heartfelt respect to the senior who left outstanding achievements.
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.". "敬意" represents "respect; honor; homage".