Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing humility is deeply tied to social hierarchy and politeness. This guide covers how to convey 'humbly' through humble language (kenjōgo), polite adverbs, and set phrases used when lowering oneself before others.
To speak or act humbly by using special humble verbs or constructions that show respect to the listener or a third party.
I will humbly guide you.
The humble form of 言う (to say). Used when humbly stating something to a superior.
お礼を申し上げます。
I humbly express my gratitude.
Humble form of もらう (to receive). Used when humbly receiving something from someone of higher status.
お手紙をいただきました。
I humbly received your letter.
Humble form of 行く (to go) or 来る (to come). Used when going to or coming from a superior's place.
明日、御社に参ります。
I will humbly visit your office tomorrow.
Humble form of 知る (to know) or 思う (to think). Used when humbly stating one's knowledge or opinion.
存じ上げております。
I humbly know (of you).
To directly modify a verb with an adverb that conveys humility, often in formal or written contexts.
Means 'humbly' or 'modestly', often used when speaking about one's own attitude or actions.
謙虚に受け止めます。
I will humbly accept it.
A set phrase meaning 'I'm terribly sorry, but...' or 'Excuse me, but...'. It conveys humility when making a request or pointing out something.
恐れ入りますが、少々お待ちください。
I humbly ask you to wait a moment.
Very formal, often used in written invitations or announcements. Means 'respectfully' or 'humbly'.
Archaic or very formal adverb used when begging or apologizing. Means 'humbly' or 'earnestly'.
To use fixed expressions that inherently carry a humble tone, often in business or formal situations.
A humble way to say 'I humbly ask for your favor' or 'Please take care of this'. The いたします is the humble form of する.
今後ともよろしくお願いいたします。
I humbly ask for your continued support.
A very humble apology, stronger than すみません. Literally 'I have no excuse'.
ご迷惑をおかけして申し訳ございません。
I humbly apologize for causing you trouble.
A humble expression of gratitude for ongoing support or assistance. Often used in business emails.
いつもお世話になっております。
I am always humbly indebted to you.
To describe acting humbly through physical actions like bowing, which often accompanies humble speech.
To bow deeply, a physical expression of humility. Often used in formal apologies or greetings.
深くお辞儀をして謝罪した。
He humbly bowed deeply and apologized.
Humble language (kenjōgo) is only used to describe your own actions or those of your in-group. Using it for someone else's actions is rude, as it lowers them. Use respectful language (sonkeigo) instead.
社長がおっしゃいました。
The president said (respectful).
私が申し上げました。
I said (humble).
The choice to use humble forms depends on the social distance and relative status between you and the listener or the person you're talking about. When in doubt, err on the side of politeness in formal settings.
謹んで新年のご挨拶を申し上げます。
I humbly offer New Year's greetings.
I humbly beg your pardon.