Translation guide
The English word 'humble' can describe a modest person, a low social position, or an action of lowering oneself. In Japanese, expressing humility is deeply tied to social context and often involves specific humble language (kenjōgo), set phrases, or describing a modest attitude.
Describing a person who does not boast or think too highly of themselves.
The most common and natural adjective for a humble personality. It implies a sincere modesty and lack of arrogance.
彼はとても謙虚な人だ。
He is a very humble person.
成功しても謙虚でいることが大切だ。
It's important to remain humble even after success.
Means 'reserved' or 'modest' in behavior. Often used for someone who doesn't push themselves forward, which can be seen as humble.
彼女は控えめで、自分の功績をあまり話さない。
She is modest and doesn't talk much about her achievements.
Literally 'low-waisted', this idiomatic phrase describes someone who is humble and polite, especially to others regardless of status.
社長は腰が低くて、誰にでも丁寧だ。
The company president is humble and polite to everyone.
Describing a person's humble origins or a modest, unpretentious thing.
Describes a modest, simple lifestyle or a person who lives frugally and without extravagance. Often used for 'humble beginnings'.
彼はつつましい家庭に育った。
He grew up in a humble household.
Means 'simple' or 'plain', often used for a humble lifestyle or dwelling. Focuses on lack of luxury.
Literally 'low social status'. Can be used historically or in contexts of class, but may sound blunt or old-fashioned.
彼は身分の低い家の出だった。
He came from a humble (low-status) family.
The action of lowering oneself, showing deference, or being modest in speech/behavior.
In Japanese, humbling oneself is often done through specific verb forms (kenjōgo) that lower the speaker's actions. This is a core part of polite speech.
Kenjōgo is used to show respect to the listener or the person you are talking about, not to describe your own personality as humble.
The verb 'to be modest' or 'to humble oneself' in speech, often by downplaying one's abilities or achievements.
彼は自分の成功を謙遜した。
He was humble about his success. (He downplayed it.)
Expressing one's own opinion modestly, often in formal or written contexts.
A formal way to say 'in my humble opinion'. Used in speeches or writing.
私見では、この計画は見直す必要がある。
In my humble opinion, this plan needs to be reconsidered.
A very humble, almost self-deprecating word for one's own opinion. Rare and highly formal.
卑見を申し上げます。
I humbly offer my opinion.
The English 'humble' can sometimes mean 'to humiliate' (e.g., 'They humbled their rivals'). In Japanese, this is usually 屈辱を与える (くつじょくをあたえる) or 面目を失わせる (めんぼくをうしなわせる), not 謙虚.
When using humble verbs like いたす or 申す, you are lowering your own actions to show respect to the listener. It does not describe your personality. To say 'I am humble', use 謙虚です.
I prefer a humble (simple) life.
Literally 'to lower one's head', meaning to humble oneself, apologize, or show respect. Often used in the context of asking for a favor or admitting fault.
彼はミスを認めて素直に頭を下げた。
He admitted his mistake and humbly bowed his head.