Translation and Meaning of: 失礼 - shitsurei

The Japanese word 失礼[しつれい] is an essential term for anyone looking to understand Japan's culture and etiquette. It carries meanings that go beyond a simple translation, reflecting deep social values. In this article, we will explore what this expression means, how it is used in everyday life, and why it is so important in Japanese communication. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese demonstrate respect or apologize politely, understanding 失礼 will be crucial.

In addition to its literal meaning, 失礼 is present in various situations, from formal greetings to requests for permission. Its origin and usage reveal much about Japanese society and its appreciation for social harmony. Let's dive into the details of this word, including tips for memorizing it and practical examples that will aid your learning. Whether for travel, studies, or simple curiosity, understanding 失礼 is an important step in mastering Japanese.

Meaning and use of 失礼

失礼 can be translated as "rude," "indelicate," or "sorry for the inconvenience," depending on the context. It is a word commonly used to express an apology for an action that may be considered inappropriate or for interrupting someone. For example, when entering an office, a Japanese person may say 失礼します (shitsurei shimasu) as a way of asking for permission.

The term also appears in everyday situations, such as when hanging up a call or leaving a meeting before others. In these cases, it acts as a polite way to acknowledge that one is being a bit inconvenient. The flexibility of 失礼 makes it one of the most useful words for anyone wanting to sound natural and respectful when speaking Japanese.

Origin and Cultural Context

The origin of 失礼 is linked to the ideograms 失 (to lose) and 礼 (etiquette, respect), suggesting the idea of "lack of courtesy." This kanji reflects the importance that Japanese culture places on harmonious social interactions. Since the Edo period, the word has been used in formal contexts, especially among samurai and merchants, where etiquette was strictly followed.

Today, 失礼 remains a key expression in professional and social environments. Its excessive use may sound overly formal among close friends, but in work situations or with older people, it is almost mandatory. This balance between formality and everyday life shows how the Japanese language adapts traditional terms to modern life.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 失礼 is to associate it with situations where a small mistake or interruption requires a quick apology. Phrases like 失礼ですが (shitsurei desu ga) – "Excuse me, but..." – are great for practice. Mentally repeating this type of construction helps to anchor the word in your active vocabulary.

Another tip is to observe the use of 失礼 in Japanese dramas or animes with professional settings. Often, characters in offices or meetings use the word naturally, which makes it easier to understand the context. Watching these contents attentively can be a fun way to learn when and how to use 失礼 in daily life.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 失敬 (shikkei) - Desculpa, desrespeito.
• お詫び (owabi) - Pedido de desculpas, retratação.
• 申し訳ない (moushiwakenai) - Feeling of regret or guilt.
• 不躾 (bushitsu) - Indelicadeza, falta de educação.
• 不作法 (busakuhou) - Comportamento impróprio, falta de cortesia.
• 失態 (shittai) - Erro, falha, desgraça.
• 失策 (shissaku) - Erro de julgamento, falha tática.
• 失言 (shitsugen) - Palavras impróprias, gafes.
• 失敗 (shippai) - Fracasso, insucesso.
• 失望 (shitsubou) - Desapontamento, desilusão.
• 失踪 (shissou) - Desaparecimento, extravio.
• 失業 (shitsugyou) - Desemprego, falta de trabalho.
• 失神 (shisshin) - Desmaio, perda de consciência.
• 失明 (shitsumei) - Perda de visão, cegueira.
• 失禁 (shitsukin) - Incontinência, perda de controle urinário.
• 失笑 (shisshou) - Risada involuntária, riso embaraçado.
• 失恋 (shitsuren) - Desilusão amorosa, término de relacionamento.
• 失散 (shissan) - Separação, dispersão.
• 失墜 (shitsui) - Perda de status ou reputação.
• 失火 (shikka) - Causar um incêndio, incêndio acidental.
• 失意 (shitsui) - Desânimo, falta de motivação.
• 失速 (shissoku) - Perda de velocidade, desaceleração.

失礼

Romaji: shitsurei
Kana: しつれい
Type: noun
L: -

Translation / Meaning: Discourtesy; import; excuse me; goodbye

Meaning in English: discourtesy;impoliteness;Excuse me;Goodbye

Definition: Behavior or behavior that violates etiquette in relation to others.

Example Sentences - (失礼) shitsurei

See below some example sentences:

お先に失礼します

Osakini shitsurei shimasu

Excuse me

Forgive me, I have to go now

• お先に - "before you"
• 失礼 - "excuse me"
• します - "to do" (verb)

割り込むのは失礼です。

Warikomu no wa shitsurei desu

It's rude to cut.

• 割り込む - verb meaning "to intrude" or "to interrupt"
• の - Particle indicating possession or relationship
• は - particle that indicates the main theme of the sentence
• 失礼 - noun meaning "discourtesy" or "rudeness"
• です - auxiliary verb that indicates the polite or formal form of the sentence