Specify Japanese Translation Tone
Tone Selection Suggestions

Introduction to Japanese Tones

In the process of Japanese translation, different tones, word choices, and expressions not only represent the diversity of the language but also profoundly reflect the complexity of etiquette and interpersonal relationships in Japanese society.

Whether in daily life or business settings, the correct use of honorifics, humble language, and polite language in Japanese translation not only helps convey information but also reflects the speaker's respect for the listener and self-restraint.

In this article, we will delve into the honorifics, humble language, and polite language in Japanese. Through specific application scenarios and comparative analysis during the translation process, you will better understand and appropriately use these language styles, and choose the correct language when translating Japanese using O.Translator.

Three Types of Tones

Honorifics

Used to express respect for the other party. It is usually used for superiors, clients, elders, or in formal occasions.

Honorifics include respectful verbs (for example: 行く＝いらっしゃる, 見る＝ご覧になる) as well as other forms of expression.

Used when expressing respect for others, for example: The president will be attending the meeting. Used when expressing respect for others, making the text appear more formal and respectful.

Humble Language

Used to lower one's own status, showing respect for the other party. This is common when communicating one's own actions or providing services, expressing one's respect for the other party.

Humble language includes humble verbs (for example: 行く＝参る, 見る＝拝見する) and other forms of expression.

Used when describing one's own actions, for example: I will attend the meeting. To show humility and respect for the other party.

Polite Language

A tone in Japanese that expresses politeness and respect is mainly achieved through the use of forms like 'です' and 'ます' to make sentences appear more courteous and formal.

Polite language is very common in daily communication, business settings, and formal correspondence. It makes the text appear more polite and formal, but does not significantly increase special respect towards others.

Usage in O.Translator

Specify Japanese Translation Tone

When using O.Translator to translate Japanese documents, you can choose between Japanese without specified tone or Japanese with specified tone.

The difference is:

Japanese without specified tone

without-tone

When you choose to translate Japanese without specifying the tone, O.Translator will automatically adjust based on the context and select an appropriate tone for the translation.

Usually, the translated text is both accurate and appropriate, but sometimes there may be inconsistencies in the tone throughout the entire text.

Japanese with specified tone

with-tone

When you choose to translate Japanese with a specified tone, O.Translator ensures that the tone and level of politeness are consistent throughout the entire document, thus avoiding issues with mixed tones.

This is particularly important in formal documents.

Tone Selection Suggestions

For especially formal occasions, it is recommended to use a specified tone for translation to ensure the document consistently maintains politeness and tone.

At other times, O.Translator can automatically adjust the tone based on context, which usually results in a natural and appropriate translation.

You can decide whether to choose a specific tone for translation based on the following suggestions.

Honorifics

Formal business letters: Involves formal correspondence with clients, superiors, or partners.
Invitations and thank-you letters: Extending invitations or expressing gratitude to clients or esteemed individuals.
Official meeting minutes: Record the content of the meeting, especially the speeches involving senior or important external figures.

Humble Language

Self-recommendation letter: For example, a job application letter, which should express respect for the recruiter.
Service documents: Documents for service industries such as hotels and travel agencies, for example, room service instructions.
Meeting summary: When recording your own or your team members' speeches.

Polite Language

Daily emails: Used for communication with colleagues, friends, or general business exchanges.
Personal blog or diary: Although for personal use, maintain a certain level of politeness and standard.
Briefings and notices: Internal company notices or short announcements.