Translation guide
The English word 'honour' covers a wide range of meanings, from personal integrity and reputation to formal recognition and respect. Japanese expresses these concepts through different words and phrases depending on the nuance. This guide breaks down the main uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
Expressing the quality of being honest, fair, and having strong moral principles.
The most direct translation for 'honour' in the sense of personal reputation and integrity. Often used in formal contexts.
彼は名誉を重んじる人だ。
He is a man who values honour.
Emphasizes sincerity and faithfulness as a moral quality, often associated with honourable behaviour.
彼の誠実さは誰もが認めている。
Everyone acknowledges his honour (sincerity/integrity).
A literary term for nobility of character, integrity, and moral purity. Used in formal or written contexts.
彼は高潔な人生を送った。
He lived a life of honour (noble integrity).
Referring to the respect and admiration that someone receives from others due to their achievements or character.
Again, the primary word for honour as reputation. Can be used in phrases like 'defend one's honour'.
彼は自分の名誉を守るために戦った。
He fought to defend his honour.
Focuses on fame and renown, the public recognition aspect of honour.
Refers to 'face' or dignity, often in the context of maintaining one's honour in social situations. Common in set phrases like '面目を保つ' (to save face).
Referring to a formal recognition, title, or special opportunity given to someone as a mark of respect.
Used for honours, awards, or distinctions conferred upon someone. Often appears in phrases like '栄誉を授ける' (to bestow an honour).
彼はその栄誉を受けた。
He received that honour.
Expresses the feeling of being honoured, often used in humble expressions like '光栄です' (I am honoured).
Can also be used for honours like titles or awards, e.g., '名誉市民' (honorary citizen).
The act of showing respect or deference, often in social interactions.
The general word for respect or honour shown to someone. Used in phrases like '敬意を表する' (to pay one's respects).
私たちは彼に敬意を払うべきだ。
We should pay honour (respect) to him.
Focuses on the feeling of deep admiration and respect, often for someone's character or achievements.
Used in phrases like 'I have the honour to...' or 'do the honours'.
A common way to express that one feels honoured to do something.
ここでお話しできることを光栄に思います。
I have the honour to speak here.
Literally 'to bear the honour', used in formal contexts when entrusted with an important task.
彼は開会の辞を述べる栄誉を担った。
He had the honour of giving the opening address.
In Japanese, the concept of honouring someone or being honoured is often conveyed through keigo (polite language) rather than a specific word. For example, using させていただく to humbly accept an opportunity.
本日はこのような機会をいただき、誠にありがとうございます。
I am truly honoured to have this opportunity today.
Used in phrases like 'honour a contract' or 'honour a commitment'.
The most common verb meaning 'to keep, protect, or abide by'. Used for promises, rules, contracts, etc.
契約を守らなければならない。
We must honour the contract.
A formal term meaning 'to fulfill or carry out' an obligation or promise.
彼は約束を履行しなかった。
He did not honour his promise.
Means 'to accomplish or fulfill' a duty or role. Often used in phrases like '責任を果たす' (to fulfill one's responsibility).
名誉 (meiyo) is the broadest term for honour, covering personal integrity, reputation, and formal titles. 栄誉 (eiyo) specifically refers to honours or awards bestowed upon someone. 光栄 (kouei) expresses the feeling of being honoured and is often used in humble expressions.
彼は名誉を傷つけられた。
His honour was damaged.
彼は栄誉を称えられた。
He was praised for his honour (achievement).
お招きいただき光栄です。
I am honoured to be invited.
When 'honour' is used as a verb meaning 'to show respect', a direct translation like 名誉する does not exist. Instead, use phrases like 敬意を払う (to pay respect) or 尊敬する (to respect). For 'honour a contract', use 守る or 履行する.
彼は名誉を重んじる人だ。
He is a man of honour.
お会いできて光栄です。
It's an honour to meet you.
約束を守らなければならない。
You must honour your promise.
彼は名声を得るために努力した。
He worked hard to gain honour (fame/renown).
彼は面目を保つことができた。
He was able to maintain his honour (save face).
お会いできて光栄です。
It is an honour to meet you.
He was awarded an honorary doctorate.
彼はみんなから尊敬されている。
He is held in honour (respected) by everyone.
He honoured his duty.