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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Respect" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "respect", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

尊敬する

そんけいする (sonkeisuru)
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 尊敬する and 敬う. In Japanese, 尊敬する (そんけいする (sonkeisuru)) is typically associated with "to respect; to esteem; to look up to; to revere" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to deeply respecting or looking up to someone's character, skills, achievements, or leadership. Opposing word: 軽蔑する. Often used as 尊敬する先輩 or 尊敬を集める. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'To respect! "I deeply respect your professionalism and beautiful leadership, Haruka-san!" ...っ! D-Deeply respecting my professionalism! B-Baka! Don't state your professional respect so formally at the corridor! But... since you look up to me, I suppose... I will continue to be the perfect leader and perfect partner you deserve! dummy!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『そんけい(尊敬)するよ!『ハルカ部長、あなたの仕事に対する圧倒的なプロ意識と、部下への深い優しさ、男として心の底から深く尊敬しています!』って…っ!私を尊敬する!バカ!/// そんな真剣な顔でダイレクトに褒めるんじゃないの!…でも、あんたに尊敬される先輩で、そして世界一愛される妻でいられるように、一生かっこいい私を見せてあげるわ!』. 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 "尊敬する"
彼はプロジェクトチームの全員から、その並外れた技術力と温かいリーダーシップで深く_______ています。
He is deeply respected by all members of the project team for his extraordinary technical capabilities and warm leadership.
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: "彼はプロジェクトチームの全員から、その並外れた技術力と温かいリーダーシップで深く_______ています。" (Meaning: "He is deeply respected by all members of the project team for his extraordinary technical capabilities and warm leadership.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "尊敬する" fits here because it means "to respect; to esteem; to look up to; to revere" in the context of: "He is deeply respected by all members of the project team for his extraordinary technical capabilities and warm leadership.". "敬う" represents "respect; honor; revere; show respect to elders/superiors".

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