What are the different levels of politeness in Japanese

Japanese language features a nuanced system of politeness that reflects the cultural emphasis on respect and social hierarchy. The two main levels of politeness in Japanese are “keigo” (敬語), which translates to “respectful language.” Within keigo, there are three subcategories: Learn Japanese with Native and Experienced trainer at Delhi’s Top Japanese Language Institute Nihonkai

1. Teineigo (丁寧語) – Polite Language:
   • Used in everyday situations, especially when speaking to those you’re not familiar with.
   • Examples:
     • です (desu) – Polite form of the copula “to be.”
     • ます (masu) – Polite verb ending.
     • お/ご + Noun – Polite prefix for nouns.
2. Sonkeigo (尊敬語) – Respectful Language:
   • Used to show respect for the actions and belongings of others, or to elevate the status of someone else’s actions.
   • Examples:
     • いらっしゃいます (irasshaimasu) – Respectful form of “to be” or “to come.”
     • 召し上がる (meshiagaru) – Respectful form of “to eat.”
     • お/ご + Stem of the verb – Polite prefix for verbs.

1. Kenjougo (謙譲語) – Humble Language:
   • Used to humble oneself or one’s in-group when talking about their actions or belongings.
   • Examples:
     • いたします (itashimasu) – Humble form of “to do.”
     • いただきます (itadakimasu) – Humble form of “to receive” used before meals.
     • お/ご + Stem of the verb – Polite prefix for verbs.

Understanding when and how to use each level of politeness is crucial in Japanese communication, as it reflects your relationship with the person you are talking to and your respect for the social context. The appropriate use of keigo contributes significantly to effective communication and demonstrates cultural sensitivity.

Most useful Japanese language Conversation starter?

Starting a conversation in Japanese can be a great way to connect with people. Here are some useful Japanese conversation starters:

1. Greetings:
   • こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello (used during the day).
   • こんばんは (Konbanwa) – Good evening (used in the evening).
   • おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – Good morning.
2. Introducing Yourself:
   • 初めまして (Hajimemashite) – Nice to meet you.
   • [Your name] と申します ([Your name] to moushimasu) – My name is [Your name].
3. Asking About Someone:
   • お元気ですか (Ogenki desu ka) – How are you?
   • お名前は何ですか (Onamae wa nan desu ka) – What is your name? Learn Japanese with India’s Top Tutor enroll for Japanese Language Course in Delhi
4. Common Interests:
   • 何が好きですか (Nani ga suki desu ka) – What do you like?
   • [Activity/Hobby] はしますか ([Activity/Hobby] wa shimasu ka) – Do you do [activity/hobby]?
5. Talking About Food:
   • おいしいですね (Oishii desu ne) – It’s delicious, isn’t it?
   • 日本の料理が好きですか (Nihon no ryouri ga suki desu ka) – Do you like Japanese food?

1. Discussing Travel:
   • 日本に行ったことがありますか (Nihon ni itta koto ga arimasu ka) – Have you been to Japan?
   • 行きたいですか (Ikitai desu ka) – Do you want to go?
2. Asking for Recommendations:
   • 何かおすすめがありますか (Nanika osusume ga arimasu ka) – Do you have any recommendations?
   • どこかおすすめの場所はありますか (Dokoka osusume no basho wa arimasu ka) – Is there a recommended place?
3. Discussing Hobbies:
   • [Your hobby] はありますか ([Your hobby] wa arimasu ka) – Do you have [your hobby]?
   • どんな趣味がありますか (Donna shumi ga arimasu ka) – What hobbies do you have?

Remember to use polite forms like です (desu) and ます (masu) when initiating conversations, especially with people you’ve just met. These phrases can help break the ice and create a friendly atmosphere for communication.