Mastering How to Use Formal Japanese (Keigo)

Mastering How to Use Formal Japanese (Keigo)

 

The usage of keigo or Japanese honorific language becomes a manner in a workplace where everyone is required to speak formal language. Keigo falls into three categories namely; sonkeigo, kenjougo, and teineigo.

 

・Sonkeigo: It is used to give respect to the person you are speaking with

・Kenjougo: It is used to give respect to the person you are speaking while lowering your own status.

・Teineigo: It uses polite words such as “masu” and “desu” to show a polite impression.

 

Sample sentences:

 

 

Common Business Keigo:

 

Business Keigo For First and Third Person:

 

Mastering keigo is definitely not easy to learn but with gradual practice, you will eventually learn how to use it naturally.