Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Respect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "respect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
敬意
けいい (keii)
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 敬意 and 敬う.
In Japanese, 敬意 (けいい (keii)) is typically associated with "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.
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 "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.
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: "素晴らしい業績を残した先輩に、心からの ＿＿＿ を表します。" (Meaning: "I express my heartfelt respect to the senior who left outstanding achievements.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "敬意" fits here because it means "respect; honor; homage" in the context of: "I express my heartfelt respect to the senior who left outstanding achievements.". "敬う" represents "respect; honor; revere; show respect to elders/superiors".