Japanese Translation: The Application of Honorifics, Humble, and Polite Forms
Yee
Sep 21, 2024
Introduction to Japanese Tones
Introduction to Japanese Tones
In the process of Japanese translation, different tones and expressions not only represent the diversity of the language but also profoundly reflect the complexity of Japanese social etiquette and interpersonal relationships.
Whether in daily life or business settings, correctly using 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 exploration of honorifics, humble language, and polite language in Japanese. Through specific application scenarios and comparative analysis in 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 typically 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 attend 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 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
In Japanese, a tone that expresses politeness and respect is mainly achieved by using 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 translating Japanese documents using O.Translator, you can choose between Japanese without specified tone or Japanese with specified tone.
The difference is:
- Japanese without specified tone
When you choose to translate Japanese without specifying the tone, O.Translator will automatically adjust based on the context to select the appropriate tone for translation.
Typically, the translated text is both accurate and appropriate, but sometimes the tone of the entire text may not be completely consistent.
- Japanese with specified 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 document, thus avoiding issues of mixed and inconsistent tones.
This is particularly important in formal documents.
Tone Selection Recommendations
For particularly 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
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Formal business correspondence: Involves formal letters with clients, superiors, or partners.
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Invitations and thank-you letters: Issuing invitations or expressing gratitude to clients or esteemed individuals.
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Official Meeting Minutes: Record the content of meetings, especially the speeches involving higher-ups or important external figures.
Humble Language
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Self-Recommendation Letter: For example, a job application letter, which should express respect for the employer.
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Service Documents: Documents for service industries such as hotels and travel agencies, for example, room service instructions.
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Meeting Summary: When recording your own or your team members' speeches.
Polite Language
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Daily Emails: Used for communication with colleagues, friends, or general business exchanges.
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Personal Blog or Diary: Although for personal use, maintain a certain level of politeness and standard.
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Briefings and Notices: Internal company notices or short announcements.
