Understanding Keigo: Japan’s Polite Language and Its Role in Everyday Communication

Ever wondered why Japanese conversations sound so polite, yet layered with meaning and formality?
Beneath the surface of every “arigatou gozaimasu” lies a refined system of speech called keigo—an essential part of Japanese communication that expresses respect, humility, and social awareness.

Whether you're visiting Japan, working with Japanese colleagues, or simply learning the language, understanding keigo will unlock a deeper connection to Japanese culture—and help you avoid awkward missteps in everything from casual chats to formal meetings.

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What Is Keigo and Why Is It So Important in Japan?

Keigo (敬語), or polite language in Japanese, is more than just formal speech—it’s a sophisticated structure that reflects social relationships, hierarchy, and humility.

There are three main forms of keigo:

1. Sonkeigo (尊敬語) – Respectful Language

Used to elevate the status of the person you're speaking to or about.
Example:
Instead of 見る (to see), say ご覧になる(goran ni naru) when referring to a superior’s action.

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2. Kenjougo (謙譲語) – Humble Language

Used to lower the speaker's own status to show respect.
Example:
Instead of 待つ (to wait), say お待ちします(omachishimasu) when humbly referring to your own action.

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3. Teineigo (丁寧語) – Polite Language

The most common in everyday life.
Example:
Using です(desu) or ます(masu) forms in general conversation.

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How Keigo Reflects Japanese Social Structure

Japan places great importance on social hierarchy—based on age, occupation, and relationship.
Keigo helps speakers:

• Show proper respect
• Avoid offending others
• Build smooth interpersonal relationships

Using the wrong level of politeness can be perceived as rude or overly familiar, especially in formal settings like workplaces or traditional ceremonies.

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Everyday Examples of Keigo in Action

At Work

• Use sonkeigo when speaking about your boss. → 部長がご覧になります (Buchou ga goran ni narimasu)
• Use kenjougo when referring to yourself. → お待ちします (Omachishimasu) = I will wait (humbly)

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At Restaurants

• Use teineigo when ordering: お水をください (O-mizu o kudasai) = May I have some water?

  Avoid casual expressions like 水ちょうだい (Mizu choudai), which can sound demanding.

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With Family or Friends

• Casual speech is fine with close peers.
• Use keigo with elders to show respect.

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Common Keigo Phrases You'll Hear in Japan

• お世話になります (Osewa ni narimasu) → “Thank you for your continued support” (common in business emails)
• 恐れ入ります (Osore irimasu) → Polite way to say “Excuse me” or “I’m sorry to trouble you”
• 失礼いたします (Shitsurei itashimasu) → Used when entering or exiting a room formally
• ご迷惑をおかけします (Gomeiwaku o okake shimasu) → “I apologize for the inconvenience”

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Why Keigo Can Be Challenging for Foreigners

Keigo has multiple layers of formality and nuance, which can be overwhelming at first.
But don’t worry—effort is appreciated, even if your keigo isn't perfect. Japanese people often admire foreigners who try to use polite language.

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Tips for Learning and Using Keigo

• Start with Teineigo – Safe in most situations
• Use Sonkeigo for Superiors – Especially at work
• Practice Actively – Speak with native speakers to gain confidence
• Watch and Listen – Observe how keigo is used in TV shows, business, and everyday life

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Final Thoughts

Keigo isn’t just grammar—it’s a window into Japan’s deeply respectful and relationship-oriented culture.
By learning keigo, you’ll not only speak more politely, but also build deeper connections and show cultural awareness that goes beyond words.

So the next time you say “arigatou gozaimasu”, know that you’re participating in something much bigger—a language of respect, humility, and human harmony.