Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'legal wife' is expressed through specific terms that distinguish between one's own wife and another person's wife, with varying levels of formality and politeness. The most common and neutral term is 妻 (tsuma), used to refer to one's own wife. When referring to someone else's wife, 奥さん (okusan) is the standard polite form. Historical and legal contexts may use 正妻 (seisai) or 本妻 (honsai), but these are less common in everyday speech.
To refer to one's own legal wife in a neutral or formal context, such as in official documents or when speaking politely about one's spouse.
The standard, neutral term for one's own wife. Used in formal and informal settings when referring to one's spouse to others. It is humble when used to refer to one's own wife in front of others.
妻は今、買い物に行っています。
My wife is out shopping now.
妻と相談してから決めます。
I'll decide after discussing it with my wife.
A humble term for one's own wife, literally meaning 'inside the house'. Traditionally used by men to refer to their wives in formal or polite conversation. It can sound old-fashioned or sexist to some, so use with caution.
Can be perceived as old-fashioned or implying a traditional gender role. Younger speakers may prefer 妻 (tsuma).
家内がいつもお世話になっております。
My wife is always indebted to you for your kindness.
A colloquial and somewhat rough term for one's own wife, often used by older men in casual settings. It can carry a nuance of familiarity or slight condescension. Not recommended for learners unless you understand the nuance.
Can sound disrespectful or overly familiar. Avoid in polite company.
うちの女房がうるさくてね。
My old lady is such a nag.
To refer to another person's legal wife in a polite or respectful manner.
The standard polite term for someone else's wife. It is respectful and commonly used in everyday conversation. Can also be used to address someone's wife directly.
田中さんの奥さんはとても親切ですね。
Mr. Tanaka's wife is very kind, isn't she?
奥さん、ちょっとお聞きしたいんですが。
Ma'am, I'd like to ask you something. (addressing someone's wife)
A more formal and honorific version of 奥さん (okusan). Used in very polite contexts, such as when speaking to a superior's wife or in customer service.
A very formal and respectful term for someone's wife, often used in writing or formal speeches. It is less common in everyday conversation.
山田氏とご夫人が出席されました。
Mr. Yamada and his wife attended.
To specify the legally recognized wife in a context where a man may have multiple wives, such as in historical or polygamous settings.
Refers to the legal or primary wife, as opposed to a concubine or secondary wife. Used in historical or legal discussions about polygamy.
彼には正妻の他に側室が何人もいた。
He had several concubines in addition to his legal wife.
Similar to 正妻 (seisai), meaning the main or legal wife. Also used in historical contexts or when discussing extramarital relationships.
In most everyday situations, you do not need to specify 'legal' wife. Simply use 妻 (tsuma) for your own wife or 奥さん (okusan) for someone else's wife. The term 'legal wife' is mainly used in contexts where there is a distinction from a common-law wife, mistress, or concubine. Using 正妻 (seisai) or 本妻 (honsai) in casual conversation would sound odd and overly technical.
妻 (tsuma) is the neutral, standard term for one's own wife. 家内 (kanai) is a humble term used by men, but it can sound old-fashioned. 奥さん (okusan) is the polite term for someone else's wife. Never use 奥さん to refer to your own wife, as it would sound arrogant.
私の妻は教師です。
My wife is a teacher. (neutral)
家内がいつもお世話になっております。
My wife is always indebted to you. (humble, male speaker)
あなたの奥さんはお元気ですか。
How is your wife? (polite, to someone else)
社長の奥様はとても美しい方です。
The company president's wife is a very beautiful woman.
本妻と愛人の間で悩んでいる。
He is torn between his wife and his mistress.