Translation guide
The concept of courtesy in Japanese is deeply tied to social harmony, respect, and modesty. It is expressed through specific words, phrases, and behaviors rather than a single direct translation.
Expressing the general idea of being polite, considerate, or showing good manners in social interactions.
The most common word for courtesy, manners, or etiquette. It refers to the social rules of polite behavior.
彼は礼儀正しい人です。
He is a courteous person.
礼儀をわきまえることが大切です。
It's important to know proper manners.
Means polite, courteous, or careful. Often used to describe polite language or careful actions.
丁寧な言葉遣いを心がけてください。
Please try to use polite language.
Loanword from English, used for manners in specific contexts like table manners or business etiquette.
食事のマナーを教えてください。
Please teach me table manners.
Referring to a specific act of kindness or favor done out of politeness.
Means kindness or a kind act. Often used when someone does something helpful or considerate.
ご親切にありがとうございます。
Thank you for your kindness.
Goodwill or favor. Can be used for a courteous act done out of goodwill.
Expressing that something is done as a matter of courtesy, often in formal or business settings.
Formal courtesy; something done as a matter of form.
それは形式的な礼儀に過ぎません。
It's just a matter of courtesy.
Conventional pleasantries or lip service; things said out of politeness rather than sincerity.
それは社交辞令だと思います。
I think that's just a courtesy.
Referring to titles like Mr., Mrs., or Dr. used to show respect.
A title of honor, such as さん, 様, or 先生.
敬称をつけて呼んでください。
Please address them with a courtesy title.
A visit made as a gesture of politeness, often in business or formal contexts.
A courtesy call or visit, especially to pay respects to someone important.
新社長が表敬訪問に来ました。
The new president paid a courtesy visit.
Avoid directly translating 'courtesy' as a standalone noun in many contexts. Japanese often uses specific phrases or verbs to express the idea of doing something out of politeness.
礼儀 refers to the broader concept of manners and etiquette, while 丁寧 describes the quality of being polite or careful. Use 礼儀 for rules of conduct and 丁寧 for polite language or actions.
That's very kind of you.