Translation guide
The English word "manners" covers a broad range of behaviors, from basic etiquette to formal social rituals. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through several words and phrases that emphasize different aspects: general politeness, proper conduct, social rules, and specific customs. This guide helps you choose the right expression based on context.
彼は礼儀正しい。
He has good manners.
Referring to everyday polite behavior, such as saying please and thank you, not being rude, etc.
The most common and general term for manners, politeness, and courtesy. It implies a sense of respect and proper behavior in social interactions.
A loanword from English, commonly used for manners in specific contexts like table manners, business manners, etc. Slightly more concrete and rule-based than 礼儀.
テーブルマナーを教える。
To teach table manners.
ビジネスマナーがなっていない。
His business manners are lacking.
Refers to formal etiquette, manners in traditional arts (tea ceremony, calligraphy), or prescribed rules of conduct. More formal and specific than 礼儀.
茶道の作法を学ぶ。
To learn the etiquette of tea ceremony.
Manners as expected behavior in society, following unwritten rules to avoid bothering others.
Focuses on behavior and conduct, especially in public or at the table. Often used with children or to criticize someone's behavior.
Loanword from French/English, often used for social etiquette and rules of polite behavior in public, similar to 'etiquette'.
Manners as traditional customs or habitual ways of behaving in a particular society.
Refers to customs and manners of a region or group, often traditional. Closer to 'customs' than everyday manners.
その国の風習に従う。
To follow the manners of that country.
More commonly means 'habit' or 'custom', but can be used for social manners when referring to established practices.
Manners reflecting a person's inner refinement or education, often used in phrases like 'no manners'.
Refers to discipline, upbringing, and training in manners. Often used for children or pets. 'しつけがいい' means well-brought-up.
しつけのなっていない子供。
A child with no manners.
しつけが厳しい家庭。
A family with strict manners.
Literally 'well-raised', implying good manners and refinement. Often used to describe someone's background.
彼女は育ちがいいから、マナーが素晴らしい。
She was raised well, so her manners are excellent.
礼儀 (reigi) is the broadest term for politeness and courtesy. マナー (manaa) is often used for specific rule-based manners (table, business). 行儀 (gyougi) focuses on outward behavior and conduct, often used in negative evaluations (行儀が悪い).
方法 (houhou) means 'method' or 'way', not 'manners'. Avoid using it to mean social etiquette.
口に食べ物を入れたまま話すのは行儀が悪い。
It's bad manners to talk with your mouth full.
彼女は立ち居振る舞いが美しい。
She has beautiful manners.
立ち居振る舞い (tachiifurumai) refers to one's overall bearing and manners.
公共の場でのエチケット。
Manners in public places.
食事の習慣が違う。
Table manners differ.