Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'guest of honour' is expressed through specific terms that convey respect and formality. The most common and versatile term is 主賓 (shuhin), used in formal events like weddings and banquets. Other terms like 賓客 (hinkaku) and 上客 (jōkyaku) carry slightly different nuances, often implying a distinguished or high-status guest. In casual settings, the idea may be expressed descriptively rather than with a single word.
The main or most important guest at a formal gathering, such as a wedding, banquet, or ceremony.
When speaking casually about someone who is treated as the most important guest, without using a formal title.
A polite and common way to refer to an important or honoured guest. It is less formal than 主賓 but still respectful.
今日は大切なお客様がいらっしゃるので、部屋をきれいに掃除しました。
We have an important guest coming today, so we cleaned the room thoroughly.
主賓 is the most direct and common translation for 'guest of honour' at events like weddings or ceremonies. 賓客 is more literary and emphasizes the guest's distinguished status, often used in written invitations. 上客 can mean 'honoured guest' but is also used for valued customers in business settings. Choose based on context and formality.
When addressing or referring to a guest of honour, it is common to use their name with an honorific title (e.g., 様, 先生) rather than a generic term like 主賓. For example, '田中様' instead of '主賓'. This shows personal respect.
He was invited as the guest of honour at the wedding.
主賓のスピーチをお願いします。
We would like to ask the guest of honour to give a speech.
A more literary term for an honoured or distinguished guest. It emphasizes the guest's high status and is often used in formal invitations or descriptions.
賓客をもてなすための特別な料理が用意された。
Special dishes were prepared to entertain the distinguished guests.
Literally 'high guest', this term refers to an honoured or important guest, often in a commercial or service context (e.g., a valued customer). It can also be used for a guest of honour in some settings.
彼はこの店の上客として特別扱いを受けた。
He received special treatment as an honoured guest of this shop.
A very formal term for a noble or distinguished guest, often used for royalty, dignitaries, or VIPs. It carries a sense of high honour and is less common in everyday contexts.
貴賓席には各国の大使が座っていた。
Ambassadors from various countries were seated in the VIP section.
Means 'special guest'. It can be used in both formal and informal settings to indicate someone is being treated with extra care.
彼女は特別なお客様として、一番いい席に案内された。
She was shown to the best seat as a special guest.