Translation and Meaning of: 尊敬 - sonkei

The Japanese word 尊敬 [そんけい] carries a deep and culturally relevant meaning, especially for those who study the language or are interested in Japanese society. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in daily life, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you've ever wondered how to express respect in Japanese authentically, understanding そんけい is a great starting point.

The meaning and importance of 尊敬

尊敬 [そんけい] is translated as "respect" or "admiration," but its usage goes beyond a simple definition. In Japan, this word is connected to social values like hierarchy, gratitude, and recognition of others' efforts. Unlike Western respect, which can be more generic, そんけい implies a deeper reverence, often associated with authority figures, masters, or individuals who have earned merit.

An interesting detail is that 尊敬 is not limited to formal relationships. It can be used among friends, as long as there is a genuine reason for admiration. For example, a colleague who is intensely dedicated to a hobby or work can be described as 尊敬できる (someone worthy of respect). This flexibility makes the word essential for those who want to communicate with nuance in Japanese.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The writing of 尊敬 reveals a lot about its meaning. The first kanji, 尊 (そん), carries the idea of "precious" or "noble," while 敬 (けい) means "reverence" or "veneration." Together, they form a term that expresses a high level of respect, almost sacred. This combination is not random—it reflects Confucian values rooted in Japanese culture, where honoring the more experienced is a virtue.

It's worth noting that 尊 also appears in words like 尊厳 (そんげん, "dignity") and 尊敬語 (そんけいご, "honorific language"), reinforcing its connection with concepts of intrinsic value. On the other hand, 敬 is a key component in expressions like 敬具 (けいぐ, used to close formal letters). Understanding these kanji helps in memorizing not only 尊敬 but also other words in the Japanese vocabulary.

How to use 尊敬 in daily life

In everyday life, 尊敬 appears in various contexts. It can be used to praise a teacher (先生を尊敬しています - "I respect my teacher"), acknowledge a colleague's work, or even admire an artist. An important characteristic is that, unlike more informal terms, そんけい carries a serious and sincere tone, being less common in jokes or casual situations.

Another common use is in combination with verbs. For example, 尊敬する (to respect) and 尊敬される (to be respected) are common constructions. Phrases like 彼は尊敬されている (He is respected) highlight actions or qualities that generate admiration. For Japanese language students, observing these structures in dramas or articles can help internalize the correct usage of the word.

Tips for memorizing 尊敬

An effective way to fixate 尊敬 is to associate it with real situations. Think of someone you deeply admire—a mentor, a relative, or even a historical figure. By linking the word to that person, the brain creates an emotional connection that makes memorization easier. Another strategy is to practice with flashcards, including phrases like 尊敬の念 (feeling of respect) to expand vocabulary.

Interestingly, the sound "son" in そんけい can be associated with the word "dream" in Portuguese—something valuable, just like respect. Although it is not an etymological relationship, phonetic tricks like this aid in retention. For those studying kanji, breaking down 尊 (treasure box + hand holding) and 敬 (old + whip) using visual mnemonics is also helpful, as long as it is based on real radicals.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 敬意 (Keii) - Respect; consideration
• 尊重 (Sonchou) - Respect; consideration (emphasizes the importance of the other)
• 敬服 (Keifuku) - To admire; to deeply respect
• 尊敬する (Sonkei suru) - To respect; to have consideration (used as a verb)

尊敬

Romaji: sonkei
Kana: そんけい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: respect; esteem; reverence; honor

Meaning in English: respect;esteem;reverence;honour

Definition: Value others and things and recognize their worth.

Example Sentences - (尊敬) sonkei

See below some example sentences:

善良な人は尊敬される。

Zenryō na hito wa sonchō sareru

Good and kind people are respected.

Good people are respected.

• 善良な人 - kind person
• は - Topic particle
• 尊敬される - is respected

年寄りは尊敬すべき存在です。

Toshiyori wa sonkei subeki sonzai desu

The elderly are a respectable presence.

The elderly are respected.

• 年寄り - means "old person" in Japanese.
• は - Grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 尊敬 - means "respect" in Japanese.
• すべき - verb form that indicates an obligation or duty.
• 存在 - means "existence" in Japanese.
• です - Verb "to be" in the present tense.

年長者は尊敬されるべきだ。

Nenchōsha wa sonkei sareru beki da

The older ones must be respected.

The elder must be respected.

• 年長者 - means "older person" or "elderly".
• は - topic particle, indicates that the subject of the sentence is "年長者".
• 尊敬 - means "respect" or "admiration".
• される - passive form of the verb "suru", which means "to be done" or "to happen". In this case, it indicates that respect is something that is "done" or "happens" towards the elderly.
• べき - indicates obligation or duty. In this case, it indicates that it is a duty to respect the elderly.
• だ - shortened form of "desu", which is a polite way of saying "to be" or "to be". In this case, it indicates that the sentence is an affirmation.

礼儀正しい人は尊敬される。

Reigi tadashii hito wa sonkei sareru

An educated and courteous person is respected.

Educated people are respected.

• 礼儀正しい - respectful, courteous
• 人 - person
• は - Topic particle
• 尊敬される - to be respected, to be admired

老人は尊敬されるべきです。

Roujin wa sonkei sareru beki desu

The elderly must be respected.

The old must be respected.

• 老人 (roujin) - "elderly person"
• は (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 尊敬 (sonkei) - The word "respeito" in Japanese is "リスペクト" (risupekuto).
• されるべき (sareru beki) - passive form of the verb "dever" in Japanese, indicating that something must be done
• です (desu) - polite form of "to be" in Japanese, used to end a sentence