Mastering Japanese Politeness Levels: Teinei, Kenjō, and Sonkei – A Guide for Future Professionals in Japan

When preparing for a career in Japan, understanding the nuances of politeness in the Japanese language is essential. Japanese society places great importance on respect, hierarchy, and social harmony, all of which are reflected in its language. This guide will introduce you to the three main levels of politeness—Teinei (丁寧語), Kenjō (謙譲語), and Sonkei (尊敬語)—with practical examples and phrases to help you communicate effectively in a professional environment.

1. Teinei (丁寧語) – Polite Language

Teinei-go is the standard polite form used in most daily and professional interactions. It is the foundation of Japanese politeness and is appropriate for speaking with colleagues, clients, and people you do not know well.

Key Features:

• Uses the -masu and -desu endings.

• Neutral and safe for most situations.

Examples:

• ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – Thank you.

• お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu) – Thank you for your hard work.

• これはレポートです (Kore wa repōto desu) – This is the report.

When to Use:

• With colleagues, clients, and superiors in everyday conversation.

• In emails, meetings, and presentations.

2. Kenjō (謙譲語) – Humble Language

Kenjō-go is used to humble yourself or your in-group (company, family) when talking about your own actions or those of your group. It shows respect by lowering your own position relative to the listener.

Key Features:

• Special verbs and expressions to humble yourself.

• Used when talking about your own actions to clients or superiors.

Examples:

• 申します (Mōshimasu) – I am called (humble for 言います iimasu).

• いたします (Itashimasu) – I do (humble for します shimasu).

• 伺います (Ukagaimasu) – I will visit/ask (humble for 行きます ikimasu or 聞きます kikimasu).

Sample Phrases:

• 私は田中と申します。 (Watashi wa Tanaka to mōshimasu.) – My name is Tanaka.

• ご連絡いたします。 (Gorenraku itashimasu.) – I will contact you.

When to Use:

• When introducing yourself to a client or superior.

• When talking about your own actions in formal business settings.

3. Sonkei (尊敬語) – Honorific Language

Sonkei-go is used to show respect to others by elevating their actions or status. It is essential when referring to the actions of clients, superiors, or anyone you wish to show respect to.

Key Features:

• Special verbs and honorific prefixes (お- or ご-).

• Used when talking about the actions of others.

Examples:

• いらっしゃいます (Irasshaimasu) – To go/come/be (honorific for 行きます ikimasu, 来ます kimasu, います imasu).

• 召し上がります (Meshiagarimasu) – To eat/drink (honorific for 食べます tabemasu, 飲みます nomimasu).

• ご覧になります (Goran ni narimasu) – To see (honorific for 見ます mimasu).

Sample Phrases:

• 社長がいらっしゃいます。 (Shachō ga irasshaimasu.) – The president is here.

• ご確認ください。 (Gokakunin kudasai.) – Please confirm (honorific).

When to Use:

• When referring to the actions of clients, superiors, or respected individuals.

• In formal business correspondence and meetings.

Quick Reference Table

Level	Use For	Example Verb	Example Phrase
Teinei	General politeness	します	お願いします (Onegaishimasu)
Kenjō	Humbling yourself	いたします	ご案内いたします (Go-annai itashimasu)
Sonkei	Honoring others	なさいます	お話しになります (Ohanashi ni narimasu)

Tips for Learners

• Start with Teinei-go: Master polite forms first; they are always safe.

• Observe and Adapt: Listen to how colleagues and superiors speak.

• Practice Set Phrases: Memorize common business expressions for each level.

• When in Doubt, Be More Polite: It’s better to be too polite than not enough in Japanese business culture.

Conclusion

Understanding and using the correct level of politeness is crucial for building trust and respect in Japanese professional settings. By mastering Teinei-go, Kenjō-go, and Sonkei-go, you will not only communicate more effectively but also demonstrate your cultural awareness and professionalism—key assets for a successful career in Japan.

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