Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Respect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "respect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
尊重する
そんちょうする (sonchou suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
おもんじる
おもんじる (omonjiru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "respect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 尊重する and おもんじる.
In Japanese, 尊重する (そんちょうする (sonchou suru)) is typically associated with "to respect; to esteem; to honor" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This verb is used to show high regard for someone's rights, opinions, culture, or dignity. It implies acknowledging and valuing their worth. It's often used in formal contexts..
On the other hand, おもんじる (おもんじる (omonjiru)) maps to "to respect, to esteem, to value, to attach importance to" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To hold something in high regard, to consider it important or valuable.. A literal translation of "respect" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "尊重する"
私たちは他者の文化を尊重するべきです。
We should respect other people's cultures.
Bilingual Context for "おもんじる"
彼は友情をおもんじる人だ。
He is a person who values friendship.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私たちは他者の文化を ＿＿＿ べきです。" (Meaning: "We should respect other people's cultures.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "尊重する" fits here because it means "to respect; to esteem; to honor" in the context of: "We should respect other people's cultures.". "おもんじる" represents "to respect, to esteem, to value, to attach importance to".