Translation guide
Expressing that one feels honored or privileged, often in response to an opportunity, praise, or recognition. Japanese uses set phrases that vary by formality and context, rather than a single direct translation.
To express that you feel privileged or honored to receive an opportunity, award, or recognition.
The most common and neutral way to say 'I am honored.' Suitable for formal and semi-formal situations.
お会いできて光栄です。
I am honored to meet you.
I am honored to receive this award.
A more formal and humble version of 光栄です. Often used in speeches or written correspondence.
このような機会をいただき、光栄に存じます。
I am deeply honored to be given this opportunity.
Expresses a feeling of being honored mixed with humility or even slight embarrassment. Implies 'I'm undeserving of such kindness/honor.' Common in business settings.
お褒めの言葉をいただき、恐縮です。
I am honored (and humbled) by your praise.
A very formal and humble expression meaning 'It is an honor greater than I deserve.' Used in highly ceremonial contexts.
このような栄誉を賜り、身に余る光栄です。
To be bestowed such an honor is more than I deserve.
To express that you feel privileged or honored to perform a specific action, such as speaking at an event or helping someone.
Pattern: Verb (te-form) + 光栄です. Expresses 'I am honored to be able to do ~.'
ここで話すことができて光栄です。
I am honored to be able to speak here.
皆様のお役に立てて光栄です。
I am honored to be of service to you all.
Pattern: Noun + を光栄に思います. A slightly more formal alternative to 〜できて光栄です.
このプロジェクトに参加できたことを光栄に思います。
I feel honored to have been able to participate in this project.
To express that you feel honored because someone visited, attended, or did something for you.
Used when someone visits or attends. Very polite.
本日はお越しいただき、光栄です。
We are honored that you have come today.
Specifically for attendance at an event or meeting.
ご多忙の中、ご出席いただき光栄です。
We are honored by your attendance despite your busy schedule.
Do not directly translate 'be honored' as 敬われる (to be respected) or 名誉を与えられる (to be given honor). These are not natural ways to express the feeling of being honored in Japanese.
光栄 (こうえい) refers to the feeling of being honored or privileged. 名誉 (めいよ) refers to honor as a reputation or distinction. For example, 名誉なこと means 'an honorable thing,' but 光栄です is the natural way to say 'I am honored.'