Translation guide
The English word 'parent' refers to a mother or father. In Japanese, the most common and neutral word is 親 (おや). However, Japanese has distinct words for 'father' and 'mother' that vary by formality and context. When referring to one's own parents in formal situations, 両親 (りょうしん) is used. In casual conversation, 親 (おや) is more natural. There are also humble and honorific terms for referring to others' parents.
Referring to a parent or parents in a general, neutral way, especially in casual contexts.
The most common and neutral word for 'parent'. Can refer to one parent or both parents depending on context. Used in everyday conversation.
How are your parents?
Listen to your parents.
Specifically means 'both parents' or 'parents' as a pair. More formal than 親. Often used when speaking politely about one's own parents.
My parents live in Tokyo.
When speaking politely about your own parents to someone outside your family, such as in a business setting.
Used for 'my parents' in formal contexts. It is neutral and respectful without being overly humble.
My parents are teachers.
Can be used in formal contexts but is less formal than 両親. Often used when the singular/plural is clear from context.
When speaking about the parents of someone you are not close to, or in a formal situation, you should use honorific language.
In very formal or humble speech, when talking about your own parents to a superior, you may use humble terms.
Even in humble contexts, 親 is often sufficient. However, there are more explicitly humble terms.
My parents are always indebted to you. (humble)
A humble term meaning 'my foolish parents'. Very formal and self-deprecating. Rarely used in modern conversation.
I apologize for the trouble caused by my parents.
When you need to specify 'father' or 'mother' rather than the general 'parent'. Japanese has many words depending on formality and whose parent it is.
Used to refer to one's own father in formal or neutral contexts. Not used for someone else's father.
My father is an office worker.
Used to refer to one's own mother in formal or neutral contexts. Not used for someone else's mother.
Used to refer to someone else's father, or to address one's own father casually. Also used by children.
Used to refer to someone else's mother, or to address one's own mother casually. Also used by children.
In legal documents, official forms, or very formal writing, specific terms are used.
In Japanese, possessive pronouns like 私の are often omitted when the context is clear. Saying 私の親 can sound redundant or overly emphatic. Simply 親 is usually enough to mean 'my parent(s)'.
My parents are coming.
親 can refer to one or both parents, while 両親 specifically means both parents. In casual speech, 親 is more common. In formal situations, 両親 is preferred when referring to both parents.
In Japanese, it is common to refer to parents by their family role title (お父さん, お母さん) even when speaking to outsiders, especially in casual contexts. This is not considered childish.
I live with my parents.
Her parents are strict.
I need to call my dad.
My parent is a doctor. (polite)
My mother is good at cooking.
Where is your father?
Ask your mother.
Please have a parent or guardian sign.