Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Respect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "respect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
尊敬
そんけい (sonkei)
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 尊敬 and 敬意.
In Japanese, 尊敬 (そんけい (sonkei)) is typically associated with "respect; esteem; admiration; looking up to someone" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to respect, esteem, or admiration toward someone's excellent character, achievements, or behavior. Often used as 尊敬を集める or 尊敬する. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Respect! 'I highly respect Haruka-san as an excellent boss!' ...っ, I-I don't just want your professional respect! I want your deep, passionate love as a woman! Baka!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『そんけい（尊敬）！『仕事ができるハルカさんを尊敬してます』だなんて、上司としての尊敬だけじゃ物足りないわ！一人の女性として、深く熱く愛しなさい！バカ！』.
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 "尊敬"
私の祖父は、どんなに貧しい境遇にあっても決して他人の悪口を言わず、周囲の人々から深く_______されていました。
My grandfather never spoke ill of others no matter how poor his circumstances were, and was deeply respected by those around him.
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: "私の祖父は、どんなに貧しい境遇にあっても決して他人の悪口を言わず、周囲の人々から深く_______されていました。" (Meaning: "My grandfather never spoke ill of others no matter how poor his circumstances were, and was deeply respected by those around him.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "尊敬" fits here because it means "respect; esteem; admiration; looking up to someone" in the context of: "My grandfather never spoke ill of others no matter how poor his circumstances were, and was deeply respected by those around him.". "敬意" represents "respect; honor; homage".