Translation and Meaning of: 名誉 - meiyo

The Japanese word 「名誉」 (meiyo) is a term that carries a profound and culturally significant meaning. 「名」 (mei) means "name" or "fame," while 「誉」 (yo) means "honor" or "glory." Together, these two words form the concept of "honor" or "prestige," reflecting the importance that Japanese culture traditionally places on reputation and social respect. It is interesting to observe how the combination of these characters emphasizes the idea of an honor that not only belongs to the individual but is also acknowledged by society.

From an etymological point of view, 「名」 has its origin in the Chinese verb that means "to name," related to its use in contexts of identity and social recognition. On the other hand, 「誉」 derives from ancient terms that symbolize praise and appreciation, often associated with acts of bravery or exemplary conduct. The choice of characters in this word shows how the Japanese language combines ancient concepts to shape modern ideas, keeping the connection with its cultural roots alive.

"名誉" is often used in Japan to recognize individuals who achieve significant feats or demonstrate exemplary character. For example, academic honors or awards in arts and sciences are often described with this term, demonstrating respect for dedication and positive social impact. In award ceremonies, the word can be heard when announcing a laureate, emphasizing the value of the individual's contribution to society.

Moreover, 「名誉」 is also used in contexts that go beyond personal honor, such as in corporations and organizations that seek to maintain a respectable and ethical image. Preserving 「名誉」 can be crucial for business and commercial interactions, highlighting the importance of operating with integrity. In Japan, this concern for reputation and the maintenance of honor is an essential aspect of social and professional conduct.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 栄誉 (Eiyo) - Honor, glory.
• ひいき (Hiiki) - Favoritism, preference.
• ほまれ (Homare) - Honor, dignity.
• まことしやか (Makoto shiyaka) - Serious; genuine; important.
• まことしやかな (Makoto shiyakuna) - Reverent; respectful; genuine.
• めいよ (Meiyo) - Fame, reputation.
• めいよう (Meiyou) - Fame; notoriety.
• めいらく (Meiraku) - Illustration of fame; prestige.
• めいれい (Meirei) - Order; command recognized.
• めいれき (Meireki) - Formal honor, title of recognition.
• ようじん (Youjin) - Care, attention; precaution.
• ようしゃ (Yousha) - Receipt of honors.
• ようじょう (Youjou) - Honor of a person, social prestige.
• ようせい (Yousei) - Noble spirit; honor.
• ようせん (Yousen) - Preferred, favored, honored.
• ようぜん (Youzen) - Honor; noble status.
• ようち (Youchi) - Importance; respect.
• ようちょう (Youchou) - Authorization, recognition.
• ようとう (Youtou) - Reputation, social prestige.
• ようほう (Youhou) - Evident honor, public recognition.
• ようめい (Youmei) - Famous; renowned.
• ようりょく (Youryoku) - Ability to stand out, prestige.
• ようれい (Yourei) - Honored spirit.
• ようろう (Yourou) - Fame in your actions; reputation.
• よくじん (Yokujin) - Person of prominence, well-named.
• よくしゃ (Yokusha) - Person of prestige; celebrity.
• よくじょう (Yokujou) - Famous for honors and virtues.
• よくせい (Yokusei) - Noble prestige; well-established reputation.
• よくせん (Yokusen) - Public recognition; widely known fame.
• よくぜん (Yokuzen) - Reflected honor, visible prestige.

名誉

Romaji: meiyo
Kana: めいよ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: honor; credit; prestige

Meaning in English: honor;credit;prestige

Definition: Receive respect, admiration, and good evaluation from others.