Translation guide
To lie face down on the ground, often as an act of worship, submission, or deep apology. In Japanese, this is expressed with specific verbs and set phrases depending on the context.
Describing the physical action of prostrating oneself, often in religious or formal apology contexts.
General verb meaning to prostrate oneself, bowing deeply with one's body flat on the ground. Used in both religious and formal apology settings.
Expressing complete submission, humility, or deference, not necessarily involving the physical act.
A figurative expression meaning a feeling of wanting to prostrate oneself, often used to convey deep gratitude or awe.
ご厚意にひれ伏す思いです。
I feel like prostrating myself before your kindness.
土下座 (dogeza) is specifically the act of kneeling and bowing with the head touching the ground, often associated with dramatic apologies or pleas. 平伏す (hirefusu) is a more general term for prostrating oneself, used in religious contexts or formal apologies. 土下座 is more culturally specific and recognizable as a gesture of extreme contrition.
The English phrase 'prostrate oneself' can sound overly formal or archaic. In Japanese, the appropriate expression depends heavily on context. Using 土下座 in a casual setting may sound exaggerated or humorous.
He prostrated himself before the god.
Specifically refers to kneeling and bowing until one's head touches the ground, often as a dramatic apology or plea. Common in historical and dramatic contexts.
彼は土下座して謝罪した。
He prostrated himself and apologized.
To lie face down or to bow deeply. Can be used for prostrating, but also for simply lying prone.
地面に伏せて祈った。
He prostrated himself on the ground and prayed.
A formal, literary phrase meaning to bow deeply and humbly, often used in written apologies or formal speeches.
平身低頭してお詫び申し上げます。
I prostrate myself and offer my deepest apologies.
To apologize humbly and earnestly, as if prostrating oneself. Used in formal apologies.
平に謝ります。
I humbly apologize (as if prostrating myself).