Translation guide
The English word 'salute' can refer to a formal military gesture, a general gesture of respect or greeting, or an act of praise or tribute. This guide covers how to express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
The formal hand gesture used in military contexts to show respect.
The standard verb for performing a military salute. It can be used for both the action and the command.
兵士は上官に敬礼した。
The soldier saluted his superior officer.
敬礼！
Salute! (as a command)
A general gesture of respect, greeting, or farewell, not necessarily military.
In Japanese culture, bowing (お辞儀) is the standard gesture of respect and greeting. A Western-style salute may be understood but is not natural. Describe the action with verbs like お辞儀する or 会釈する.
彼は軽く会釈した。
He gave a slight bow (as a salute/greeting).
An expression of praise, honor, or tribute to someone or something.
Means 'to express respect/homage'. A natural way to convey saluting someone's achievements or character.
我々は彼の勇気に敬意を表する。
We salute his courage.
Directly translating 'salute' as 敬礼する in everyday situations can sound overly formal or military. Use bows or phrases of praise instead.
Literally 'hand-raising salute', a more descriptive term for the military salute gesture.
彼は挙手の礼をした。
He gave a hand salute.
Can be used for non-military salutes, but often implies a formal, military-style gesture. Use with caution.
彼は旗に敬礼した。
He saluted the flag.
Means 'to praise' or 'to admire'. Suitable for saluting someone's efforts or accomplishments.
彼の努力を称賛する。
I salute his efforts.