Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Respect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "respect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
尊重
そんちょう (sonchou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
敬愛
けいあい (keiai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "respect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 尊重 and 敬愛.
In Japanese, 尊重 (そんちょう (sonchou)) is typically associated with "respect; esteem; reverence" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents As a noun, it refers to the act or feeling of holding something or someone in high regard, valuing their rights, opinions, or culture. It can also be used as a する verb.
On the other hand, 敬愛 (けいあい (keiai)) maps to "respect and affection; deep admiration and love; holding in high esteem" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to holding someone in high esteem with deep respect and affection. A literal translation of "respect" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "尊重"
彼は常に他人の意見を尊重します。
He always respects other people's opinions.
Bilingual Context for "敬愛"
彼は生涯にわたり、自分の恩師を深く_______し、節目ごとに必ず挨拶に訪れていました。
Throughout his life, he held his mentor in deep respect and affection, always visiting to greet him at every milestone.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は常に他人の意見を ＿＿＿ します。" (Meaning: "He always respects other people's opinions.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "尊重" fits here because it means "respect; esteem; reverence" in the context of: "He always respects other people's opinions.". "敬愛" represents "respect and affection; deep admiration and love; holding in high esteem".