Translation guide
Describing oneself or one's actions in a humble or modest way, often to downplay achievements or avoid standing out. In Japanese, this is a core social skill expressed through specific humble language (kenjōgo), self-effacing phrases, and cultural attitudes.
To speak humbly about your own actions or state when interacting with someone of higher status, in formal situations, or to show respect.
The humble equivalent of する (to do). Used in formal speech or business settings to refer to your own actions.
私がいたします。
I will do it (humbly).
The humble equivalent of 言う (to say). Used when referring to your own speech, especially when introducing yourself or speaking to a superior.
私は田中と申します。
I am called Tanaka (humbly).
The humble equivalent of 行く (to go) or 来る (to come). Used for your own movement toward a respected person or place.
明日、そちらに参ります。
I will go/come to you tomorrow (humbly).
The humble equivalent of いる (to be/exist). Used to refer to your own presence or state in a humble way.
私はここにおります。
I am here (humbly).
To downplay your skills, accomplishments, or qualities in a social context, often to show modesty or to avoid appearing arrogant.
Literally 'not yet, not yet,' meaning you still have a long way to go. A common, humble response to compliments.
A: 日本語が上手ですね。B: いえ、まだまだです。
A: Your Japanese is good. B: No, I still have a lot to learn.
An expression of strong denial when praised, meaning 'not at all,' 'unthinkable,' or 'don't be ridiculous.' It humbly rejects the compliment.
A: 素晴らしいプレゼンでした。B: とんでもないです。
A: That was a wonderful presentation. B: Not at all (don't mention it).
A self-deprecating phrase meaning 'someone like me' or 'as for me (I'm not worthy).' Used to humble oneself before stating an opinion or ability.
私なんてまだまだです。
Someone like me still has a long way to go.
Means 'it's nothing special' or 'no big deal.' Used to downplay your own achievement or skill.
私の料理は大したことないです。
My cooking is nothing special.
To characterize a person who often makes fun of themselves or downplays their own worth, often as a comedic or personality trait.
The most direct adjective meaning 'self-deprecating' or 'self-mocking.' Often used to describe humor or a personality trait.
彼は自虐的なジョークをよく言う。
He often tells self-deprecating jokes.
Literally 'to belittle oneself.' A more formal or serious way to describe self-deprecation, often implying low self-esteem rather than humor.
彼女はいつも自分を卑下している。
She is always putting herself down.
Means 'self-mocking' or 'self-ridiculing.' Similar to 自虐的 but slightly more literary and less common in everyday speech.
To make your own belongings, family, or qualities sound humble when speaking to someone of higher status.
A very humble, old-fashioned way to refer to your own wife. Literally 'foolish wife.' Rarely used today except in formal or joking contexts.
愚妻がお世話になっております。
My foolish wife is indebted to you (very humble).
A humble term for your own home, meaning 'my humble abode.' Used in formal invitations or letters.
While self-deprecation is a valued social skill in Japan, directly translating humble phrases into English can sound overly negative or lacking in confidence. In cross-cultural situations, it's often better to accept compliments gracefully in English while still using humble forms in Japanese.
日本語がお上手ですね。
Your Japanese is good.
Humble language (kenjōgo) lowers the speaker's actions to show respect, while honorific language (sonkeigo) raises the listener's actions. For example, 申す (humble 'say') vs. おっしゃる (honorific 'say'). Self-deprecation often uses humble forms.
私が申します (humble) vs. 先生がおっしゃいました (honorific)
I say (humble) vs. The teacher said (honorific)
自嘲的な笑みを浮かべた。
He gave a self-deprecating smile.
Please come to my humble home.