Translation guide
The English word 'formal' covers a wide range of situations, from official events and ceremonies to polite language and stiff behavior. In Japanese, the best translation depends heavily on what is being described: a formal occasion, formal speech, formal attire, or a formal relationship. This guide breaks down the main uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
Describing an event that is official, ceremonial, or follows strict etiquette.
Means 'official' or 'formal' in the sense of being according to established rules or procedures. Commonly used for events, ceremonies, and procedures.
This is a formal ceremony.
Such attire is not appropriate for a formal occasion.
Loanword from English, often used for dress codes and events, especially in invitations or fashion contexts. Slightly more casual than 正式.
Please come to the party in formal attire.
Describes an event or atmosphere that is stiffly formal, emphasizing strict adherence to formality. Often has a slightly negative nuance of being overly rigid.
Formal dinner parties are tiring.
Referring to polite, respectful, or official language, as opposed to casual speech.
Polite language; the standard polite form using です/ます. This is the most common way to speak formally in Japanese.
Use polite language with superiors.
Honorific language; a broader category that includes respectful and humble forms. Used in very formal or business settings.
Describes speech or behavior that is formal, stiff, or ceremonious. Often used for situations where one is not relaxed.
Speak in a formal tone.
Directly translates 'formal language' using the loanword. Understandable but less natural than native terms.
Clothing that is suitable for official or ceremonial occasions.
Formal dress; full formal attire. Often used for events like weddings or ceremonies.
Please attend in formal dress.
Formal wear, especially for ceremonies like weddings or funerals. More specific than 正装.
Loanword for formal wear, common in fashion contexts.
Describing a relationship or behavior that is distant, polite, and not friendly or intimate.
Distant, cold, standoffish. Describes behavior that is overly formal and unfriendly.
He suddenly became formal/distant.
Formal and ceremonious, often implying a lack of casualness. Can be used for relationships or settings.
Referring to official, structured education or credentials.
Something done in an official or legally recognized manner.
正式 (seishiki) is the standard word for 'formal' in the sense of official or according to rules. フォーマル (fōmaru) is a loanword often used for dress codes and events, but can sound slightly less serious. For official documents or procedures, 正式 is preferred.
formal documents
formal party
While フォーマルな言葉遣い is understandable, it's not the most natural way to say 'formal language'. Use 丁寧語 (teineigo) or 敬語 (keigo) instead.
use formal language
I want to be able to use formal/honorific language correctly.
Formal language is required in business.
葬儀には礼服を着ていく。
Wear formal attire to the funeral.
Rent formal wear.
Stiff, formal, and uncomfortable. Often used for atmospheres or people who are too rigid.
Let's skip the formal greetings.
In formal settings, I can't make my usual jokes.