Translation guide
The feeling or expression of deep respect, awe, or veneration, often toward someone or something sacred, highly esteemed, or powerful.
Expressing a profound sense of respect, often tinged with awe or admiration, toward a person, ideal, or entity.
The most common and versatile word for 'respect' or 'reverence.' It can be used in formal and everyday contexts, and often implies a deep, sincere respect.
Physical expressions of reverence, such as bowing deeply or kneeling.
To bow deeply, a common gesture of profound respect or reverence in Japan.
彼は深々とお辞儀をして、感謝の意を表した。
He bowed deeply to express his reverence and gratitude.
Reverence directed toward gods, spirits, or holy things.
敬意 (keii) is the broadest term for reverence/respect, suitable for most situations. 尊敬 (sonkei) emphasizes esteem for a person's qualities. 畏敬 (ikei) adds a sense of awe or fear, often for something overwhelmingly great. Use 敬意 when unsure.
English 'reverence' can sound overly dramatic if translated directly into Japanese in casual contexts. Often, 敬意 or 尊敬 is sufficient. Reserve 畏敬 or 崇敬 for truly awe-inspiring or sacred contexts.
彼は先生に深い敬意を抱いている。
He holds deep reverence for his teacher.
敬意を表して、一礼した。
He bowed once to show his reverence.
Focuses on respect and esteem, often for a person's character, achievements, or status. Slightly less 'awe' than 敬意, but still strong.
彼女は祖母をとても尊敬している。
She has great reverence for her grandmother.
Specifically combines awe/fear with respect. Used for overwhelming greatness, divine beings, or nature. More literary or formal.
畏敬の念を抱いて星空を見上げた。
He gazed up at the starry sky with a feeling of reverence.
Implies worshipful reverence, often religious or toward a highly revered figure. Stronger and less common in daily speech.
神社では神々への崇敬の気持ちが大切だ。
At the shrine, a feeling of reverence toward the gods is important.
To kneel, often as an act of reverence or supplication, though less common in modern Japanese daily life.
彼は祭壇の前でひざまずいて祈った。
He knelt before the altar in reverence and prayed.
A formal term for reverence or veneration, often used in religious or philosophical contexts.
この寺院は仏陀への尊崇の念で満ちている。
This temple is filled with a sense of reverence for the Buddha.
To regard as sacred or hold in reverence. Often used for objects or places.
その山は地元の人々に神聖視されている。
The mountain is held in reverence by the local people.