Mastering the art of keigo, or polite language, is an essential skill for anyone looking to fully understand and immerse themselves in Japanese culture. Japanese society places a high value on respect, hierarchy, and social harmony, and these principles are deeply embedded in the language. Keigo is not just about using polite words; it’s about understanding and expressing the subtleties of social relationships. In this article, we will explore the different types of keigo, provide practical examples, and offer tips on how to use keigo appropriately.
Understanding Keigo
Keigo can be categorized into three main types: sonkeigo (尊敬語), kenjogo (謙譲語), and teineigo (丁寧語). Each serves a specific purpose and is used in different contexts.
Sonkeigo (尊敬語) – Respectful Language
Sonkeigo, also known as respectful language, is used to elevate the status of the person you are speaking to. This form of keigo is often used when addressing someone of higher social status, such as a boss, teacher, or elder.
Examples:
– 行く (iku – to go) becomes いらっしゃる (irassharu)
– 食べる (taberu – to eat) becomes 召し上がる (meshiagaru)
– 言う (iu – to say) becomes おっしゃる (ossharu)
In practice, if you were asking your boss if they are going to a meeting, you would say:
会議にいらっしゃいますか？ (Kaigi ni irasshaimasu ka?)
Kenjogo (謙譲語) – Humble Language
Kenjogo, or humble language, is used to lower the speaker’s own status or the status of their in-group. This type of keigo is often used when you are talking about your own actions in a way that shows respect to the listener.
Examples:
– する (suru – to do) becomes 致す (itasu)
– 行く (iku – to go) becomes 参る (mairu)
– 言う (iu – to say) becomes 申す (mousu)
If you were telling your boss that you will go to the meeting, you would say:
会議に参ります (Kaigi ni mairimasu)
Teineigo (丁寧語) – Polite Language
Teineigo, or polite language, is the most commonly used form of keigo and is generally used to show politeness in everyday interactions. It involves using the polite suffix “-ます” (masu) and the polite copula “です” (desu).
Examples:
– 行く (iku – to go) becomes 行きます (ikimasu)
– 食べる (taberu – to eat) becomes 食べます (tabemasu)
– 言う (iu – to say) becomes 言います (iimasu)
If you are simply telling someone that you are going to a meeting, you would say:
会議に行きます (Kaigi ni ikimasu)
The Importance of Context
One of the most challenging aspects of learning keigo is understanding when and how to use it appropriately. The choice between sonkeigo, kenjogo, and teineigo depends largely on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the listener.
Hierarchy and Social Status
In a Japanese workplace, for example, you would use sonkeigo when speaking to your boss or a client, and kenjogo when talking about your own actions or the actions of your colleagues to someone outside your company. Teineigo is often used in more general, everyday interactions where extreme politeness is not required but respect is still shown.
Formal vs. Informal Settings
In more formal settings, such as business meetings, official ceremonies, or when meeting someone for the first time, higher levels of keigo are expected. In more casual settings, like when talking to friends or family, less formal language is acceptable, though even within families, some degree of keigo may be used to show respect to elders.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even for native Japanese speakers, keigo can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.
Using the Wrong Form
One of the most common mistakes is using sonkeigo when you should be using kenjogo, or vice versa. For example, saying いらっしゃいます (irasshaimasu) when talking about your own actions instead of using 参ります (mairimasu).
Overusing or Underusing Keigo
Another common mistake is overusing keigo in situations where it is not necessary, which can make the conversation sound awkward. Conversely, underusing keigo in formal situations can come across as rude.
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to avoid these mistakes is through practice. Engage in conversations with native speakers, pay attention to how keigo is used in different contexts, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback.
Learning Resources and Tools
There are many resources available to help you master keigo. Here are a few recommendations:
Textbooks and Grammar Guides
Books such as “Japanese the Manga Way” and “A Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar” offer detailed explanations and examples of keigo.
Online Courses and Apps
Platforms like WaniKani, Rosetta Stone, and Duolingo offer courses that include sections on keigo.
Language Exchange Partners
Finding a language exchange partner can provide you with real-life practice and feedback. Websites like Tandem and HelloTalk are great for finding language exchange partners.
Practical Tips for Mastering Keigo
Here are some practical tips to help you on your journey to mastering keigo:
Listen and Observe
Pay close attention to how native speakers use keigo in different situations. Watching Japanese TV shows, movies, and listening to podcasts can be particularly helpful.
Practice Regularly
Make a habit of practicing keigo daily. Try to incorporate keigo into your everyday conversations, even if it’s just a simple “ありがとうございます” (Arigatou gozaimasu – Thank you very much).
Seek Feedback
Don’t be afraid to ask native speakers for feedback. They can provide valuable insights and help you correct any mistakes.
Be Patient
Mastering keigo takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and remember that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process.
Conclusion
Mastering keigo is an essential part of becoming proficient in Japanese and understanding Japanese culture. While it may seem challenging at first, with practice and perseverance, you can become skilled in using keigo appropriately and effectively. Remember to pay attention to context, practice regularly, and seek feedback from native speakers. By doing so, you will not only improve your language skills but also gain a deeper appreciation of the social nuances that make Japanese such a rich and fascinating language.
