Meaning
Polite language (丁寧語) is a formal speech style used to show respect and courtesy to listeners who are strangers, equals, or of higher status. The most common polite forms include the ~ます and ~です endings. Additional polite expressions use forms like ございます, ましょう, and でしょう. When connecting sentences politely, patterns like ~まして and ~ますので are used to maintain formality and respect throughout the conversation.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 動詞 | 動詞ます形 + ます |
| 名詞 | 名詞 + です |
| 動詞（連接） | 動詞ます形 + まして、… |
| 動詞（原因） | 動詞ます形 + ますので、… |
Examples
-
行きます。
I will go. -
学生です。
I am a student. -
見てみましょう。
Let's give it a try. -
いいでしょう。
That's fine, isn't it? -
昨日 部長に お礼を 言われまして、とても うれしかったです。
Yesterday, I was thanked by my department head, and I was very happy. -
大事な 仕事を 担当させてもらっていますので、頑張らなければなりません。
Since I am allowed to handle important work, I must do my best. -
彼は 野球の ボールを 投げました。
He threw the baseball.
Summary
- Use polite language (ます/です forms) with unfamiliar people, equals, and superiors
- Connect sentences politely using ~ましたので, ~ますので, and ~ましてpatterns to maintain formality
- Apply the 'ウチ/ソト' (inside/outside) concept: use humble language for in-group members when speaking to out-group people, never elevate your own family or company members in formal situations