Translation guide
In Japanese, being courteous is deeply tied to politeness levels, indirectness, and social harmony. This guide covers how to express courteous behavior, speech, and attitude naturally.
Describing a person or their behavior as polite, well-mannered, and showing respect.
The most common word for 'polite' or 'courteous', used for both language and behavior.
He uses very courteous language.
I appreciate your courteous response.
Emphasizes proper manners and etiquette; often used for people who are well-bred and courteous.
She is a very courteous person.
Very polite, sometimes excessively so; can imply formal courtesy that may feel distant.
To treat someone with elaborate courtesy.
Showing courtesy through humility, often by lowering oneself or one's actions.
Being thoughtful and considerate, avoiding inconvenience to others.
Expressing courtesy through honorific or humble speech.
Using keigo (polite language) is the most direct way to be courteous in Japanese. This includes 丁寧語 (polite), 尊敬語 (honorific), and 謙譲語 (humble) forms.
It is courteous to use polite language with customers.
A very polite form of 'です', used in formal customer service.
The restroom is this way, sir/madam. (very courteous)
Describing courteousness that is graceful and sophisticated.
While 丁寧 and 礼儀正しい are common, Japanese often expresses courteousness through verbs and set phrases rather than adjectives. For example, instead of 'He was courteous,' you might say 'He spoke politely' (丁寧に話した) or 'He showed consideration' (気を遣った).
In Japanese, being courteous often means being indirect. Using softer expressions like 〜かもしれません (it might be...) or 〜ていただけませんか (could you possibly...) is more courteous than direct statements.
He is always courteous to everyone.
A courteous reply
She gave a courteous bow.
謙遜して自分の功績をあまり話さない。
He is courteously modest and doesn't talk much about his achievements.
彼女はいつも周りに気を遣っている。
She is always courteously attentive to those around her.
上品な言葉遣いを心がけている。
I try to use courteous and refined language.