Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing humility is deeply tied to social hierarchy and politeness. It is often conveyed through specific humble verbs, phrases, and attitudes rather than a single word. The most common way to express humility is through 謙遜 (kenson), which means modesty or self-deprecation, and through humble language (謙譲語, kenjōgo) used to lower oneself or one's in-group when speaking to superiors.
Expressing that one is not proud or boastful; downplaying one's own abilities or achievements.
The most common noun for 'humility' or 'modesty'. Often used in the phrase 謙遜する (to be humble/modest).
彼はいつも謙遜している。
He is always humble.
謙遜は美徳です。
Humility is a virtue.
Also means 'humility' or 'modesty', but often implies a more sincere, unpretentious attitude. Slightly more formal than 謙遜.
彼の謙虚な態度に感心した。
I was impressed by his humble attitude.
The verb form meaning 'to be humble' or 'to speak modestly'. Commonly used when someone downplays their own success.
彼女は自分の功績を謙遜した。
She was humble about her achievements.
Literally 'to say with humility', used when someone makes a self-deprecating remark.
彼は謙遜して「まだまだです」と言った。
He said with humility, 'I still have a long way to go.'
Using special humble verbs or phrases to show respect to the listener by lowering one's own actions.
A humble pattern where you attach お (for native Japanese words) or ご (for Sino-Japanese words) to the verb stem, followed by する. This lowers your own action to show respect to the recipient.
Humble form of 言う (to say). Used when referring to one's own speech or the speech of an in-group member to an out-group superior.
私は田中と申します。
I am called Tanaka. (humble self-introduction)
Humble form of する (to do). Used for one's own actions.
私がいたします。
I will do it. (humble)
Humble form of 行く (to go) or 来る (to come). Used when the speaker goes or comes to a superior's location.
Humble form of いる (to be/exist). Used for one's own existence or that of an in-group member.
私はここにおります。
I am here. (humble)
Describing a person's character or demeanor as humble, not arrogant.
Na-adjective meaning 'humble' or 'modest'. Describes a person's nature.
彼はとても謙虚な人だ。
He is a very humble person.
Means 'reserved', 'modest', or 'understated'. Often used for personality or behavior that is not pushy.
彼女は控えめな性格です。
She has a modest personality.
Idiom meaning 'humble' or 'unassuming', literally 'low-waisted'. Describes someone who is polite and not arrogant despite their status.
Common set phrases used to downplay one's own ability or situation, often in response to praise.
Literally 'It's still not enough', used to humbly deflect praise, meaning 'I still have a long way to go'.
A: 日本語が上手ですね。B: いえ、まだまだです。
A: Your Japanese is good. B: No, I still have a lot to learn.
Used to strongly deny a compliment or expression of gratitude, meaning 'Not at all' or 'Don't mention it'. Conveys humility.
A: ありがとうございます。B: とんでもないです。
A: Thank you very much. B: Not at all.
A formal expression of humility and gratitude, often used when someone does something for you. Implies 'I'm unworthy of such kindness'.
お心遣い、恐縮です。
I am humbled by your thoughtfulness.
Using humble language (kenjōgo) is essential in business and formal situations, but using it in casual settings can sound sarcastic or overly stiff. Reserve it for when you are speaking to superiors, customers, or in formal contexts.
友達に「お待ちします」と言うと変です。
Saying 'I will wait (humble)' to a friend sounds strange.
Both mean humility, but 謙遜 often refers to the act of speaking or behaving modestly, while 謙虚 describes a deeper, sincere modesty of character. 謙虚 is more about inner attitude, 謙遜 is more about outward expression.
I will come to your office tomorrow. (humble)
社長は腰が低い。
The company president is humble.