Translation and Meaning of: 仰っしゃる - osharu

The Japanese word 仰っしゃる (おっしゃる) is an essential term for those who wish to master the Japanese language in formal and respectful contexts. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Furthermore, we will understand why this expression is so valued in Japanese culture and how it differs from other forms of polite language.

If you have ever studied Japanese, you have probably encountered おっしゃる in formal dialogues, series, or even in animes that depict professional situations. Here at Suki Nihongo, we will uncover the details of this word, from its grammatical structure to practical tips for memorization. Shall we begin?

Meaning and use of おっしゃる

The word (おっしゃる) is the honorific form of the verb "to say" (言う). It is used to show respect when referring to someone else's speech, especially in formal situations or when speaking with hierarchical superiors. For example, if you want to ask "What did the teacher say?", in Japanese it would be 「先生は何とおっしゃいましたか？」.

It is worth noting that おっしゃる is not used to refer to oneself, as it would be considered arrogant. Instead, Japanese people use humble forms like 申す (もうす) when referring to their own words. This distinction is crucial to avoid blunders in serious or professional conversations.

Origin and structure of the word

The word おっしゃる originates from the verb 仰す (おおす), an archaic form of "to say" that already carried a respectful tone. Over time, the Japanese language underwent phonetic transformations, and the term evolved into the form we know today. The kanji 仰 (ぎょう) by itself conveys the idea of "looking up" or "respecting," which reinforces its use in reverential contexts.

Grammatically, おっしゃる belongs to the group of irregular verbs, which means that its conjugation does not follow common patterns. For example, its past form is おっしゃいました, and not おっしゃった, as many students might initially assume. This detail often confuses even advanced students, so it's worth practicing a lot.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize おっしゃる is to associate it with specific situations where respect is mandatory, such as work meetings or conversations with older people. Watching Japanese dramas that depict corporate environments also helps, as the word appears frequently in this type of content.

Another tip is to remember that おっしゃる is part of the so-called "keigo" (honorific language), just like いらっしゃる (to be/come) and なさる (to do). These three verbs share similar conjugation patterns, which makes learning easier when studied together. Writing down example sentences in your notebook or review app can further speed up the process.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 仰っしゃる

• 仰る - Humble form
• 仰る - Respectful manner
• 仰る - Polished form

Synonyms and similar words

• おっしゃる (ossharu) - Say (respectful form, usually used to refer to what someone else says)
• 申し上げる (moushiageru) - Say (used when speaking respectfully, typically in formal contexts)
• 仰せられる (osserareru) - To say (an even more respectful form, used for very formal situations or when speaking about superiors)
• おっしゃられる (osshararu) - Say (a respectful and passive form, which also refers to saying or being said, but is less common)

仰っしゃる

Romaji: osharu
Kana: おっしゃる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n4, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to say; to speak; tell; to talk

Meaning in English: to say;to speak;to tell;to talk

Definition: [verb] Respect and listen to the words and opinions of the other person. In colloquial language, it is also used as an expression of respect, "to say, to tell." "There is a reason for what you are saying."

Example Sentences - (仰っしゃる) osharu

See below some example sentences:

「彼は偉大な指導者として仰っしゃる。」

Kare wa idai na shidōsha to shite ossharu

He is revered as a great leader.

He is a great leader.

• 彼 (kare) - he
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 偉大な (idai na) - Great, magnificent
• 指導者 (shidousha) - leader, guide
• として (toshite) - as, in the capacity of
• 仰っしゃる (ossharu) - expression of respect when speaking of someone, in this case, "is considered"