Japanese keigo phrases you need to know (敬語)

As a foreigner you will probably get away most of the time with just using です and ます-form when speaking Japanese, but learning Japanese keigo phrases (敬語) are still highly recommended. If only to understand what the staff at shops and restaurants are saying to you. Furthermore, if you ever intend on working in Japan you should definitely learn the honorific form of Japanese grammar, keigo.

What is keigo and when do you use it?

Keigo, or honorific language, is used in Japanese to show respect and deference to the listener or to the person being referred to. It is an important part of Japanese culture and is used in a variety of contexts, including business, social interactions, and formal occasions. Some common situations in which keigo might be used:

• When speaking to people of higher status, such as superiors at work or elderly people.
• In formal or business settings, such as meetings or presentations.
• When speaking to strangers or people you do not know well.
• When thanking someone or expressing gratitude.

It is important to use keigo appropriately, as it can be seen as a sign of respect and good manners. In general, keigo is used more often in formal or polite situations, and is less common in casual or familiar settings.

Japanese keigo phrases – honorific sonkeigo (尊敬語)

Kenjougo (謙譲語) humble form

Sonkeigo (above) is only used when speaking to other people. For example your boss or when you work in the service industry. Below you’ll find the humble form of keigo, kenjougo, which is used when talking about yourself to someone above you (boss, elderly person, etc).