Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'last name' is expressed with the word 名字 (myōji) or 姓 (sei). Japanese names are typically written with the family name first, followed by the given name. When speaking to or about someone, it is common to use their last name with an honorific suffix like さん (san).
The general term for a person's family name or surname.
The most common and neutral word for 'last name' or 'family name' in everyday conversation.
What is your last name?
I changed my last name.
A more formal or written term for 'surname'. Often used in official documents or when contrasting with the given name (名, mei).
Please fill in your surname and given name.
How to address or refer to someone using their last name, which is the standard polite way in Japanese.
In Japanese, it is standard to address people by their last name followed by the honorific さん (san). This is polite and neutral, similar to Mr./Ms. in English. Using only the last name without an honorific can sound rude or overly familiar.
Good morning, Mr./Ms. Tanaka.
Is Mr./Ms. Suzuki here?
A more formal honorific than さん, used in business correspondence, on addresses, or when showing high respect to customers.
Dear Mr./Ms. Yamada (in a letter)
Polite ways to ask for a person's family name.
While this literally means 'What is your name?', in Japanese it is understood that you are asking for the full name, but the last name is often given first. To specifically ask for the last name, you can use 名字.
Excuse me, what is your name?
A polite way to specifically ask for someone's last name.
In English, it's common to call someone by just their last name in informal settings (e.g., 'Hey, Smith!'). In Japanese, this is considered very rude. Always add an honorific like さん, or use the full name with さん in more formal contexts.
Japanese names are traditionally written family name first, given name second. When introducing themselves in English, some Japanese people may reverse the order. In Japanese, always use family name first unless you are certain the person prefers otherwise.
Could you tell me your last name?