also: きくきゅうじょ
taru-adjective, adverb taking the 'to' particle
deferential; humble; reverent; respectful
Classical literary word describing a deeply respectful, bowing demeanor. Used with 〜とした or 〜として in modern contexts, often in formal or literary writing.
He stood before his teacher with a deeply respectful, bowing demeanor.
To interact with a reverent and humble attitude.
謙虚 is a common na-adjective/noun meaning 'humble' or 'modest', focusing on a modest mindset. 鞠躬如 emphasizes outward deferential behavior and is much rarer and more literary.
Classical kanji spelling; the reading きくきゅうじょ is restricted to this form. Rare in modern Japanese.
Mixed kanji-kana spelling with the more common reading きっきゅうじょ. Rare overall.
From classical Chinese, combining 鞠躬 (to bow deeply) and 如 (a suffix indicating a state or manner). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the word is a literary borrowing used in classical Japanese texts.