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B1 verb 10 min read

敬う

uyamau

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 敬う in 30 Seconds

Explanation 敬う in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe people and basic actions. While '敬う' (uyamau) is a bit advanced for a total beginner, you can think of it as a very strong version of 'like' (suki) mixed with 'important' (taisetsu). When you are A1, you mostly use simple verbs like 'taberu' (eat) or 'mimasu' (watch). However, learning 'uyamau' helps you understand how Japanese people feel about their teachers and parents. In simple terms, 'uyamau' means you look at someone and think, 'This person is great, and I should be very polite to them.' You might hear it when people talk about 'Respect for the Aged Day' in September. Even if you don't use it in your own sentences yet, knowing that it means 'to respect' will help you understand Japanese culture from the very beginning. Just remember: 'uyamau' is for people who are older or more important than you, like your grandmother or a king.

At the A2 level, you are building your vocabulary to talk about your daily life and basic social rules. '敬う' (uyamau) is useful when you want to explain why you use polite language with certain people. You might say, 'I respect my parents' (Watashi wa ryoushin o uyamaimasu). At this level, you should focus on the basic 'Subject o Verb' pattern. You are learning that Japanese society has a vertical structure, and 'uyamau' is the verb that describes how you look 'up' the ladder. You will see this word in textbooks when they talk about Japanese traditions or holidays. It is a 'Godan' verb, so it conjugates like 'kau' (to buy) or 'utau' (to sing). For example, the polite form is 'uyamaimasu' and the past form is 'uyamatta.' Try to use it when you talk about someone you really look up to, but remember to keep it for very serious situations. For your friends, you should still use 'sugoi'!

As a B1 learner, you are entering the 'Intermediate' stage where nuance becomes very important. '敬う' (uyamau) is a key word for you because it allows you to distinguish between different types of respect. In English, we use 'respect' for everything from a athlete's skill to a grandfather's wisdom. In Japanese, you now know that 'uyamau' is specifically for the latter—honor, reverence, and traditional status. You should be able to use the passive form 'uyamawarete iru' (is being respected) to describe famous historical figures or community leaders. You are also learning that this verb is more formal than 'sonkei suru.' While you might 'sonkei' a famous businessman for his success, you 'uyamau' the emperor or a spiritual leader. At this level, you should start using 'uyamau' in your writing assignments about culture or family to show that you understand the deeper 'heart' of the Japanese language. It shows you aren't just translating English thoughts into Japanese, but thinking in a Japanese way.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using '敬う' (uyamau) in various grammatical forms, including potential, causative, and conditional. You should also understand its relationship with the kanji '敬' (kei), which appears in 'keigo' (honorifics) and 'keii' (respect). You can now use 'uyamau' to discuss complex topics like the changing social values in modern Japan. For instance, you might debate whether young people still 'uyamau' the elderly as much as they used to. You should also recognize the word in literature and formal news reports. B2 learners should be careful not to confuse 'uyamau' with 'toutobu' (to value). While they are similar, 'uyamau' is for people and deities, while 'toutobu' is for abstract concepts like 'freedom' or 'life.' Using 'uyamau' correctly in a speech or a formal essay will significantly boost your perceived fluency because it demonstrates a mastery of 'social register'—the ability to choose the right word for the right social context.

At the C1 level, you are exploring the philosophical and historical depths of the word '敬う' (uyamau). You understand that this verb has roots in the concept of 'awe' or even a 'respectful fear' toward the divine. You can analyze how the usage of 'uyamau' has shifted from the Meiji era to the present day. In your own output, you use 'uyamau' with precision, perhaps contrasting it with 'agameru' (to worship) or 'keifuku suru' (to be struck with admiration) to provide a nuanced critique of a person's character. You are also aware of compound verbs like 'uyamai-tattobu' and can use them in high-level academic or literary writing. A C1 learner understands that 'uyamau' is not just a verb but a reflection of the 'Vertical Society' (Tate-shakai) theory by Chie Nakane. You can discuss how 'uyamau' functions as a social glue that maintains harmony (wa) in Japanese groups. Your use of the word is naturally integrated into your understanding of Japanese ethics and aesthetics.

At the C2 level, '敬う' (uyamau) is a tool for poetic and highly sophisticated expression. You have a native-like grasp of its evocative power. You might use it in a funeral oration, a high-level diplomatic speech, or a piece of creative writing to invoke a sense of timeless tradition and profound reverence. You understand the subtle irony if 'uyamau' is used sarcastically or in a 'reverse' social context. You can navigate the most complex honorific structures where 'uyamau' is the underlying motivation for every choice of prefix and suffix. For a C2 learner, this word is a gateway to understanding the 'unspoken' in Japanese communication—the 'kuuki o yomu' (reading the air) that happens when respect is felt but not explicitly stated. You are capable of explaining the etymological evolution of the word from ancient Japanese and its interaction with Chinese Confucian texts. Using 'uyamau' at this level is about more than communication; it is about demonstrating a profound connection to the Japanese cultural identity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

敬う in 30 Seconds

Uyamau is a formal verb meaning to respect or revere, focusing on the person's status or inherent worth rather than just their skills.
It is commonly used for elders, ancestors, deities, and nature, reflecting traditional Japanese values and social hierarchy.
Grammatically, it is a Godan verb (Type 1) that takes the particle 'o' and is often seen in the passive form 'uyamawareru'.
Distinguish it from 'sonkei suru' (intellectual respect) and 'agameru' (worship) to ensure you use the correct social register.

The Japanese verb 敬う (uyamau) is a cornerstone of Japanese social and spiritual ethics. At its core, it means to show respect, to honor, or to revere someone or something. While English often uses the word 'respect' broadly, uyamau carries a weight of sincerity and distance that distinguishes it from more casual forms of admiration. It is not just about acknowledging someone's skills; it is about recognizing their inherent dignity, their status, or their sacred nature. This word is deeply intertwined with the concept of keigo (honorific language), yet it describes the feeling or action of respecting rather than just the linguistic mechanics.

Spiritual Reverence: In a religious context, uyamau is used to describe the attitude toward deities (kami) or ancestors. It implies a sense of awe and a recognition of a power greater than oneself. When Japanese people visit a shrine, the internal state of honoring the spirit residing there is expressed as kami o uyamau.
Social Hierarchy: In the Confucian-influenced structure of Japanese society, respecting elders and those in higher positions is a fundamental duty. Uyamau is the verb used to describe this moral obligation. It is frequently paired with uyamau kokoro (a heart of respect).

私たちは、伝統を守り、先祖を敬うことを大切にしています。
(We place great importance on protecting traditions and honoring our ancestors.)

The nuance of uyamau also extends to nature. In Japanese culture, which is historically rooted in Shintoism, nature is seen as something to be revered rather than conquered. Therefore, one might uyamau the mountains or the sun. This is a vital distinction from the English 'respect,' which can sometimes be earned through merit; in Japanese, uyamau is often something owed to the natural order of things.

親を敬うのは、子供としての務めだ。
(Respecting one's parents is a child's duty.)

Literary Tone: You will encounter this word frequently in literature, formal speeches, and educational materials. It is less common in casual 'water cooler' talk at work, where sonkei is preferred. Using uyamau adds a layer of gravity and classical beauty to your speech.

In summary, uyamau is the bridge between human emotion and social structure in Japan. It encapsulates the 'why' behind the bowing, the polite speech, and the preservation of old customs. When you use this word, you are signaling a deep, cultural understanding of the sanctity of life and the importance of those who came before you.

Using 敬う (uyamau) correctly requires understanding its grammatical structure as a Godan verb (Type 1). It follows standard conjugation patterns but is almost always used in contexts that demand a degree of formality. Whether you are talking about family values or national holidays like Respect for the Aged Day, this verb provides the necessary gravitas.

お年寄りを敬う気持ちを忘れてはいけない。
(We must not forget the feeling of respecting the elderly.)

Active Voice (Subject respects Object): The most common structure is [Person A] が [Person B] を敬う. This is a direct statement of A's attitude toward B. In professional settings, this might be phrased as 'We respect our founders' or 'We respect the laws of the land.'
Passive Voice (Being Respected): The passive form 敬われる (uyamawareru) is frequently used to describe someone who is highly esteemed by society. For example, 'He is a teacher who is respected by everyone' becomes Kare wa minna ni uyamawarete iru sensei da.

One interesting grammatical feature of uyamau is its frequent appearance in the te-form as an adverbial phrase or as part of a compound. For instance, uyamai-tattobu means to respect and value highly. Because it is a verb of emotion/action, it can also be used in the potential form uyamaeru (can respect), though this is rarer than the simple transitive usage.

彼はその功績により、多くの国民に敬われている。
(Due to his achievements, he is respected by many citizens.)

In the context of children's education, you will see the imperative or hortative forms. Teachers might say Uyamaou! (Let's respect!) when teaching about social harmony. The negative form uyamanai is often used as a moral critique: He does not respect his superiors (Kare wa joushi o uyamanai).

Polite Form (Masu-form): In formal speeches, you will use 敬います (uyamaimasu). However, in very high-level honorific speech (Keigo), you might see the noun form Keii (respect) used with the verb harau (to pay), as in Keii o haraimasu. Uyamau remains the standard verb for the action itself.

神仏を敬う心は、日本の文化に深く根ざしている。
(The spirit of honoring Shinto and Buddhist deities is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.)

Mastering uyamau means more than just knowing the conjugation; it's about knowing when the situation calls for a 'higher' level of respect than just sonkei. Use it when the person or object possesses a natural or traditional authority that transcends mere professional competence.

If you are living in Japan or consuming Japanese media, you won't hear 敬う (uyamau) in every casual conversation, but you will hear it in specific, highly meaningful contexts. It is a word that signals 'seriousness' and 'tradition.' Here is where it typically appears in the wild.

Ceremonies and National Holidays: The most famous instance is 敬老の日 (Keirou no Hi), or Respect for the Aged Day. During this holiday, news broadcasts, government speeches, and school announcements constantly use the phrase otoshiyori o uyamau (respecting the elderly). It is the official verb for the national sentiment of the day.
School Assemblies and Moral Education: In Japanese schools, there is a subject called Doutoku (Morals). A common theme is meue no hito o uyamau (respecting one's superiors/elders). Principals often use this word in their morning addresses to remind students of their social responsibilities.

「先生を敬い、友達を大切にしましょう」と校長先生が言った。
("Let's respect our teachers and cherish our friends," the principal said.)

You will also hear this word in historical dramas (Jidaigeki) or anime set in the past. Samurai and priests use uyamau to discuss their loyalty to a lord or their devotion to a temple. In modern anime, a character might use it when talking about a legendary figure or a mentor who changed their life. It conveys a level of devotion that sonkei simply cannot reach.

古来より、日本人は自然を神として敬ってきました。
(Since ancient times, Japanese people have revered nature as a god.)

News and Documentaries: When the Imperial Family is mentioned, or when discussing a globally respected figure like a Nobel Prize winner, the narrator might use uyamawarete iru to indicate their high status in the public's eyes. It is the language of national esteem.

In summary, uyamau is the sound of Japanese values in action. It’s the word used when the topic shifts from 'what we do' to 'who we are' and 'what we value.' If you hear it, pay attention—the speaker is likely talking about something they consider sacred or fundamentally important.

While 敬う (uyamau) is a straightforward verb, its specific nuance makes it easy for English speakers to misapply. The most common error is using it in place of the more common sonkei suru or using it for people of the same or lower status.

Mistake 1: Over-using it in Casual Settings: If you tell a friend, 'I respect your ability to cook,' using uyamau would sound incredibly strange—almost as if you are worshipping their cooking skills like a deity. For skills, hobbies, or peer-level admiration, use sugoi to omou (think it's great) or sonkei suru.
Mistake 2: Confusing it with 'Politeness': Being polite (teinei) is a behavior; uyamau is an internal state of reverence. You can be polite to a customer without necessarily 'uyamau-ing' them. Conversely, you might uyamau a stern grandfather even if the interaction isn't strictly 'polite' in a service-industry sense.

❌ 友達のギターの技術を敬う。
✅ 友達のギターの技術を尊敬する。
(Use 'sonkei' for skills/peers.)

Another mistake involves the direction of respect. In Japanese culture, you generally do not use uyamau to describe your own actions toward someone younger or lower in status unless you are speaking in a very specific philosophical sense. It is a 'bottom-up' verb. A boss doesn't uyamau an intern; they might hyouka suru (evaluate/appreciate) them.

❌ 私は自分の後輩を敬っています。
✅ 私は後輩の努力を認めています。
(Use 'mitomeru'—to recognize/acknowledge—for juniors.)

Mistake 3: Kanji Confusion: The kanji 敬 is also used in Keigo (honorifics). Beginners sometimes think uyamau means 'to use Keigo.' While they are related, uyamau is the feeling, and Keigo is the tool. You can 'uyamau' someone without speaking if you are at a grave or a shrine.

To avoid these pitfalls, ask yourself: 'Is this about a skill, or is it about the person's soul/status?' If it's a skill, go with sonkei. If it's about their position as an elder, a god, or a parent, uyamau is your best choice.

Japanese has a rich vocabulary for 'respect,' and choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the object of your respect. Here is how 敬う (uyamau) compares to its closest relatives.

尊敬する (Sonkei suru): Difference: This is the most common word for 'respect.' It is more intellectual and merit-based. You sonkei a scientist for their discovery or a senior for their leadership. Uyamau is more about the person's innate worth or traditional role.
崇める (Agameru): Difference: This means 'to worship' or 'to revere' at an even higher level than uyamau. It is almost exclusively used for gods, idols, or people treated like gods. It implies looking up from a very low position.
尊ぶ (Toutobu / Tatobu): Difference: This means 'to value' or 'to prize.' It is often used for abstract concepts like 'peace,' 'life,' or 'tradition.' While uyamau is directed at people or spirits, toutobu is directed at values.

彼は英雄として崇められている。
(He is worshipped as a hero.)

In a business context, you might use 敬意を表する (keii o hyousuru), which means 'to express respect.' This is a formal, noun-based phrase used in emails and speeches. It is the 'action' version of the feeling described by uyamau.

個人の尊厳を尊ぶことが民主主義の基本だ。
(Valuing individual dignity is the basis of democracy.)

敬服する (Keifuku suru): Difference: This means 'to admire' or 'to be struck with admiration.' It is used when you are deeply impressed by someone's specific action or attitude. It is more situational than the enduring state of uyamau.

By learning these nuances, you can navigate Japanese social interactions with much more precision. Uyamau remains the most 'human' and 'traditional' of the bunch, making it indispensable for understanding the Japanese heart.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji '敬' (kei) consists of '苟' (meaning caution or grass) and '攵' (an action radical). It originally depicted someone performing a ritual with great care and caution, which is why 'uyamau' still carries a sense of 'careful reverence' today.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ʊ-jə-maʊ

US u-jɑ-maʊ

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'uyamau', the pitch typically starts low on 'u' and rises on 'ya', staying high for 'ma-u'.

Rhymes With

utau (to sing) warau (to laugh) kau (to buy) au (to meet) harau (to pay) shimau (to finish) mou (already - partial rhyme) kanau (to come true)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'u' like 'you' (it should be a flat Japanese 'u').
Stress-accenting one syllable like English (Japanese uses pitch instead).
Confusing the 'ma-u' ending with a single 'mow' sound.
Mixing up with 'uyamashii' (which isn't a word, though 'uyauyashii' is).
Failing to pronounce the final 'u' clearly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The kanji 敬 is common but has many strokes. It is learned in elementary school 6th grade.

Writing 4/5

Writing 敬 correctly requires attention to stroke order and the right-side radical.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is simple, but choosing the right context (register) is the hard part.

Listening 2/5

Clear four-syllable word that is easy to distinguish in formal speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

尊敬 (sonkei) 大切 (taisetsu) 先生 (sensei) 親 (oya) 神 (kami)

Learn Next

尊ぶ (toutobu) 崇める (agameru) 敬意 (keii) 謙虚 (kenkyo) 礼儀 (reigi)

Advanced

敬天愛人 (keiten aijin) 敬して遠ざける (kei shite toozakeru) 敬虔 (keiken) 恭しい (uyauyashii)

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verbs with を

神を敬う。

Passive Voice (Uyamawareru)

彼は国民に敬われている。

Dictionary Form as Noun Modifier

人を敬う心。

Potential Form (Uyamaeru)

どうしても彼を敬うことができない。

Te-form to connect verbs

神を敬い、祈りを捧げる。

Examples by Level

私はおじいさんを敬います。

I respect my grandfather.

Simple Subject-Object-Verb pattern.

先生を敬うことは大切です。

Respecting teachers is important.

Using the dictionary form + koto to make a noun phrase.

神様を敬いましょう。

Let's respect God/the deities.

Volitional form -mashou (let's).

子供は親を敬います。

Children respect their parents.

General truth using the present tense.

あの人はみんなを敬っています。

That person respects everyone.

Te-iru form showing a continuous state/attitude.

日本の文化は、お年寄りを敬います。

Japanese culture respects the elderly.

Subject is a concept (culture).

私たちは伝統を敬うべきです。

We should respect tradition.

Using -beki (should).

母はいつも祖先を敬っています。

My mother always honors our ancestors.

Adverb 'itsumo' (always) with te-iru form.

彼は、自分より年上の人を敬っている。

He respects people older than himself.

Relative clause: 'people who are older than oneself'.

この国では、自然を敬う習慣があります。

In this country, there is a custom of respecting nature.

Noun + ga arimasu (there is a...).

あなたは、誰を一番敬っていますか？

Who do you respect the most?

Question form with 'dare' (who) and 'ichiban' (the most).

彼は有名な学者で、多くの人に敬われている。

He is a famous scholar and is respected by many people.

Passive voice 'uyamawarete iru'.

私たちは、お互いを敬うことが必要だ。

It is necessary for us to respect each other.

Otogai (each other) as the object.

昔の人は、太陽を神として敬いました。

People in the past revered the sun as a god.

A o B toshite (A as B).

敬う気持ちがあれば、言葉遣いも変わります。

If you have a feeling of respect, your way of speaking will also change.

Conditional -ba (if).

彼女は、命を敬う医者になりたいと言った。

She said she wants to become a doctor who respects life.

Indirect quote with 'to itta'.

武士道において、敵を敬うことは美徳とされていた。

In Bushido, respecting one's enemy was considered a virtue.

Passive past 'sarete ita' (was considered).

私たちは、異なる文化を持つ人々を敬わなければならない。

We must respect people who have different cultures.

Must form: -nakereba naranai.

彼女の、信念を貫く姿勢は敬うに値する。

Her attitude of sticking to her beliefs is worthy of respect.

Uyamau ni atai suru (worthy of respect).

彼は、どんな小さな生き物でも敬う心を持っている。

He has a heart that respects even the smallest living thing.

Donna... demo (no matter how...).

日本には、物を敬うという考え方があります。

In Japan, there is a way of thinking of respecting objects.

Noun + to iu + noun (the concept of...).

リーダーは、部下から敬われる存在であるべきだ。

A leader should be a presence who is respected by their subordinates.

Beki da (should be) with passive form.

歴史を敬うことで、未来へのヒントが見つかるかもしれない。

By respecting history, we might find hints for the future.

De (by means of) + koto.

彼は、亡くなった祖父を今でも深く敬っている。

He still deeply respects his late grandfather.

Adverb 'fukaku' (deeply).

宗教的な背景がなくても、自然を敬う心は万国共通だ。

Even without a religious background, the heart that respects nature is universal.

V-nakute mo (even if not...).

彼はその謙虚な人柄ゆえに、周囲から敬われている。

Due to his humble personality, he is respected by those around him.

Noun + yue ni (due to/because of).

伝統をただ守るだけでなく、敬うことが真の継承につながる。

Not just protecting tradition, but respecting it leads to true succession.

Dake de naku (not only...).

どんなに成功しても、初心を敬うことを忘れてはならない。

No matter how much you succeed, you must not forget to respect your original intention.

Donna ni... temo (no matter how much...).

彼は、恩師を一生敬い続けると誓った。

He swore to continue respecting his former teacher for the rest of his life.

V-stem + tsuzukeru (continue to...).

他者のプライバシーを敬うことは、現代社会のルールだ。

Respecting others' privacy is a rule of modern society.

Abstract object (privacy).

彼は、自分を厳しく律する人を敬う傾向がある。

He tends to respect people who discipline themselves strictly.

Keikou ga aru (has a tendency to).

その寺院は、何世紀にもわたって人々に敬われてきた。

That temple has been respected by people for many centuries.

V-te kita (has been ...ing until now).

真の知性とは、未知の領域を敬う謙虚さから生まれるものだ。

True intelligence is something born from the humility to respect the unknown.

Mono da (it is the nature of things that...).

彼は、権力に屈することなく、正義を敬う道を選んだ。

Without yielding to power, he chose the path of respecting justice.

V-stem + koto naku (without ...ing).

古文書を紐解くと、先人がいかに山を敬っていたかが分かる。

Unfolding ancient documents, one can see how much the ancestors revered the mountains.

Ikani... ka (how much/to what extent...).

その芸術家は、素材の持つ自然な美しさを敬い、最小限の加工に留めた。

The artist respected the natural beauty of the material and kept processing to a minimum.

V-stem (uyamai) used to connect sentences (literary style).

多様性を敬う社会の構築には、個々の意識改革が不可欠である。

Individual awareness reform is indispensable for building a society that respects diversity.

Formal 'dearu' style.

彼は、自分の弱さを認め、他者の強さを敬うことができる人物だ。

He is a person who can admit his own weaknesses and respect the strengths of others.

V-koto ga dekiru (can do...).

古典文学を敬うことは、言語の魂に触れることに等しい。

Respecting classical literature is equivalent to touching the soul of the language.

Ni hitoshii (equivalent to).

生命の神秘を敬うとき、私たちは自己の存在の小ささを知る。

When we revere the mystery of life, we realize the smallness of our own existence.

V-toki (when...).

天を敬い人を愛する「敬天愛人」の精神は、彼の生涯の指針であった。

The spirit of 'Revere Heaven, Love People' (Keiten Aijin) was the guiding principle of his life.

Direct reference to a famous four-character idiom (Yojijukugo).

沈黙の中にこそ、真実を敬う最も深い形が存在するのかもしれない。

Perhaps within silence lies the deepest form of respecting the truth.

Koso (particle for emphasis).

彼は、時代の奔流に流されることなく、普遍的な価値を敬い続けた孤高の哲学者だ。

He is a solitary philosopher who continued to respect universal values without being swept away by the torrent of the times.

Passive potential 'nagasareru' + 'koto naku'.

万物に神が宿ると信じ、一草一木をも敬うアニミズム的感性が、日本文化の底流にある。

The animistic sensitivity of believing that gods dwell in all things and respecting even a single blade of grass or a single tree lies at the undercurrent of Japanese culture.

Complex noun modification.

法治国家において、法の精神を敬うことは、市民としての最低限の矜持である。

In a constitutional state, respecting the spirit of the law is the minimum pride of a citizen.

Use of formal vocabulary like 'kyouji' (pride/dignity).

伝統の深淵を敬うあまり、彼は新しい試みに対して慎重になりすぎていた。

Because he respected the abyss of tradition so much, he had become too cautious about new attempts.

V-amari (so much that... result is usually negative).

彼は、自らの限界を敬うことで、逆に無限の可能性を見出したのだ。

By respecting his own limits, he conversely found infinite possibilities.

Gyakuni (conversely/on the contrary).

言葉を敬う者は、言葉によって生かされ、言葉によって滅びることもある。

Those who respect words are given life by words, and can sometimes be destroyed by them.

Passive 'ikasareru' and 'horobiru'.

Common Collocations

神仏を敬う

お年寄りを敬う

親を敬う

自然を敬う

敬う気持ち

敬われる存在

先祖を敬う

伝統を敬う

師を敬う

生命を敬う

Common Phrases

敬う心

— A heart of respect. Refers to the internal feeling of reverence.

敬う心がなければ、形だけの礼儀は意味がない。

敬い奉る

— To revere and serve (extremely formal). Used in religious or historical contexts.

神を敬い奉る儀式。

敬われる人

— A person who is respected. Describes someone with high social standing.

彼は村で一番敬われる人だ。

敬うべき人

— Someone who should be respected. Refers to elders or mentors.

彼は私にとって敬うべき人です。

敬うに足る

— Worthy of respect. Used when someone's actions are impressive.

彼の努力は敬うに足るものだ。

敬い尊ぶ

— To respect and value highly. A compound phrase for deep reverence.

自然の恵みを敬い尊ぶ。

敬うことを忘れる

— To forget to show respect. Often used as a warning.

礼儀を欠き、人を敬うことを忘れてはいけない。

敬う態度

— A respectful attitude. The external manifestation of respect.

彼は常に敬う態度で接してくれる。

敬う念

— A sense of respect/reverence. A more formal way to say 'feeling'.

偉大な芸術家に対する敬う念。

敬い愛する

— To respect and love. Often used for family or mentors.

両親を敬い愛しています。

Often Confused With

敬う vs 尊敬する (sonkei suru)

English speakers use 'respect' for both. In Japanese, 'sonkei' is for skills/character, 'uyamau' is for status/nature/gods.

敬う vs 尊ぶ (toutobu)

'Toutobu' is for abstract values (freedom, life); 'uyamau' is for concrete entities (people, spirits).

敬う vs 大切にする (taisetsu ni suru)

Means 'to cherish' or 'to take care of.' You can cherish a pet, but you 'uyamau' a deity.

Idioms & Expressions

"敬天愛人"

— Revere Heaven, Love People. A famous motto by Saigo Takamori.

彼は「敬天愛人」を座右の銘にしている。

Literary/Historical

"敬して遠ざける"

— To keep someone at a respectful distance. To show respect on the surface but avoid getting close.

彼は気難しいので、みんな敬して遠ざけている。

Common

"敬老の精神"

— The spirit of respecting the elderly.

敬老の精神を大切にする社会を目指す。

Formal

"敬意を表する"

— To express respect. (While not an idiom with 'uyamau', it shares the root).

彼の功績に敬意を表する。

Formal

"敬意を欠く"

— To lack respect; to be disrespectful.

そのような態度は敬意を欠いている。

Formal

"敬意を払う"

— To pay respect.

対戦相手には常に敬意を払うべきだ。

Neutral

"敬遠する"

— To give a wide berth; to avoid something/someone out of a sense of unease or respect.

面倒な仕事は敬遠されがちだ。

Common

"敬服の至り"

— The utmost admiration. Used in very formal letters.

先生のご活躍、敬服の至りに存じます。

Very Formal

"敬礼する"

— To salute (military/police).

警察官が上官に敬礼する。

Professional

"敬具"

— Sincerely yours. Used at the end of formal letters.

手紙の最後に「敬具」と書く。

Formal Writing

Easily Confused

敬う vs 尊敬 (sonkei)

Both translate to 'respect'.

Sonkei is noun-based and common in business/daily life for skills. Uyamau is a native verb for reverence and tradition.

才能を尊敬する vs 先祖を敬う

敬う vs 崇める (agameru)

Both involve looking up to someone.

Agameru is much stronger, meaning 'to worship' or 'to treat as a god'.

カリスマを崇める

敬う vs 敬遠 (keien)

Contains the same kanji 敬.

Keien actually means to 'avoid' or 'give a wide berth' to someone you find difficult, but politely.

面倒な人を敬遠する

敬う vs 重んじる (omonjiru)

Both involve valuing something.

Omonjiru is about 'placing importance' on rules or values, not necessarily feeling reverence.

規律を重んじる

敬う vs 尊ぶ (toutobu)

Both mean to honor or value.

Toutobu is for principles; Uyamau is for the person/entity representing the principle.

命を尊ぶ

Sentence Patterns

私は [Person] を敬います。

私は先生を敬います。

[Person] は [Person] に敬われている。

彼はみんなに敬われている。

[Object] を敬うことは大切だ。

伝統を敬うことは大切だ。

[Reason] ゆえに、[Person] は敬われている。

その誠実さゆえに、彼は敬われている。

[Object] を敬う心こそが、[Result]。

自然を敬う心こそが、平和への鍵だ。

[Object] を敬うあまり、[Result]。

過去を敬うあまり、変化を恐れてはいけない。

[Person] を敬うに値する。

彼の勇気は敬うに値する。

[Object] を敬う習慣がある。

この村には自然を敬う習慣がある。

Word Family

Nouns

敬意 (keii) - respect/honor

敬語 (keigo) - honorific language

敬老 (keirou) - respect for the aged

尊敬 (sonkei) - respect/esteem

Verbs

敬う (uyamau) - to respect

敬服する (keifuku suru) - to admire

敬遠する (keien suru) - to avoid/keep at a distance

Adjectives

恭しい (uyauyashii) - respectful/reverent

敬虔な (keiken na) - pious/devout

尊ぶ (toutobu) - to value

崇める (agameru) - to worship

拝む (ogamu) - to pray/worship

畏れる (osoreru) - to fear/be in awe of

祀る (matsuru) - to enshrine

How to Use It

frequency

Common in formal/literary contexts; rare in casual daily chat.

Common Mistakes

Using 'uyamau' for a friend's skill. → 尊敬する (sonkei suru)
'Uyamau' is for status/reverence; 'sonkei' is for skills/merit. You don't 'revere' a friend's gaming skills.
Saying 'Watashi wa jibun o uyamau'. → 自分に自信を持つ (jibun ni jishin o motsu)
You cannot use 'uyamau' for yourself in Japanese. It is a verb for others.
Using the wrong particle (e.g., 'Sensei ni uyamau'). → 先生を敬う
'Uyamau' is a transitive verb and requires the object marker 'o'.
Confusing 'uyamau' with 'uyamashii'. → 敬う (uyamau)
'Uyamashii' is not a word. You might be thinking of 'urayamashii' (envious), which is totally different!
Using 'uyamau' for a younger person. → 褒める (homeru) or 認める (mitomeru)
In the Japanese vertical society, 'uyamau' is almost exclusively for those older or higher than you.

Tips

When in doubt, use Sonkei

If you aren't sure if a person is 'venerable' enough for 'uyamau,' use 'sonkei suru.' It is safer and more modern.

Particle Choice

Always use 'o' with 'uyamau.' It is a transitive verb. 'Sensei o uyamau' is correct.

Shrine Etiquette

When visiting a shrine, the act of bowing and praying is the physical version of 'kami o uyamau'.

Tone Matters

Don't use 'uyamau' with a joking or light tone. It is a word that demands sincerity.

Kanji Practice

The kanji 敬 has 12 strokes. Practice the right-side radical (攵) carefully; it's a common 'action' radical.

Learn the Holiday

Memorize 'Keirou no Hi' (Respect for the Aged Day). It's the perfect context to remember 'uyamau'.

Vertical Society

Think of 'uyamau' as a 'bottom-to-top' verb. It's almost always directed at someone higher in the social hierarchy.

News Keywords

In news about the Imperial Family, listen for the passive form 'uyamawarete iru'.

The Mountain Rule

If you can imagine bowing to it like a mountain, you can probably use 'uyamau'.

Keiten Aijin

Learning the phrase 'Keiten Aijin' (Revere Heaven, Love People) will make you sound very cultured.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'U' (You) and 'Yama' (Mountain). When you see a giant mountain (yama), you say 'U! Yama!' in awe. You respect the mountain. U-Yama-u.

Visual Association

Imagine a young person bowing deeply to a giant, ancient tree with a Shinto rope (shimenawa) around it. This captures the sense of nature and tradition in 'uyamau'.

Word Web

Respect Elders Nature Gods Tradition Bowing Honor Awe

Challenge

Try to find three things in your life that you 'uyamau' (not just 'sonkei'). Is it an old teacher? A family tradition? A local park? Write a sentence for each.

Word Origin

The word 'uyamau' is derived from the ancient Japanese adjective 'uyauyashii,' which meant to be cautious, polite, and full of reverence. The root 'uya' is related to an old exclamation of awe or respect.

Original meaning: To behave with extreme caution and politeness in the presence of something powerful or divine.

Japonic (Old Japanese).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use 'uyamau' for people of lower status or peers in a casual way, as it can sound patronizing or unnaturally stiff.

In English, 'respect' is used for both a boss's skill and a god's power. In Japanese, 'uyamau' is strictly for the 'god's power' or 'elder's status' side of the spectrum.

Keirou no Hi (Respect for the Aged Day) - National Holiday. Saigo Takamori's 'Keiten Aijin' motto. The Imperial Rescript on Education (historical context).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

National Holidays

敬老の日
お年寄りを敬う
感謝の気持ち
長寿を祝う

Religious Settings

神仏を敬う
先祖を敬う
お参りする
畏敬の念

Education

師を敬う
礼儀正しく
道徳の時間
目上の人を敬う

Nature Appreciation

自然を敬う
八百万の神
環境保護
山を敬う

Martial Arts (Budo)

礼に始まり礼に終わる
相手を敬う
道場
精神修養

Conversation Starters

"日本には「敬老の日」がありますが、あなたの国ではお年寄りを敬う特別な日がありますか？"

"あなたが一番敬っている人は誰ですか？その理由も教えてください。"

"「自然を敬う」という考え方について、どう思いますか？"

"最近の若者は目上の人を敬っていないと言われることがありますが、どう考えますか？"

"伝統を敬うことは、現代社会においてなぜ大切だと思いますか？"

Journal Prompts

今日、あなたが誰かに対して「敬う気持ち」を感じた瞬間について書いてください。

自分の国の伝統の中で、最も敬うべきだと思うものは何ですか？その理由を詳しく説明してください。

「尊敬する」と「敬う」の違いについて、自分の経験を交えて考察してください。

もしあなたが学校の先生だったら、子供たちに「人を敬うこと」をどう教えますか？

100年後の未来でも、人間は自然を敬い続けていると思いますか？あなたの予測を書いてください。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. Using 'uyamau' for a friend sounds like you are worshipping them, which is weird or sarcastic. Use 'sonkei suru' or 'sugoi to omou' for peers.

Rarely as a verb. In business, phrases like 'keii o harau' (pay respect) or 'sonkei suru' are much more common. 'Uyamau' is too emotional/traditional for most office settings.

'Uyamau' is respect and honor. 'Agameru' is worship. You 'uyamau' your grandfather; you 'agameru' a god or a legendary hero.

No, it can be used for nature (mountains, the sun), deities, and ancestors. It is for anything 'venerable'.

You don't use 'uyamau' for yourself. Self-respect is 'jisonshin' (self-respect heart) or 'jibun o taisetsu ni suru' (take care of oneself).

Yes, but in specific contexts. You'll see it in textbooks, news, and hear it on holidays, but not in a conversation about what to eat for lunch.

The kanji is 敬. It is also used in 'keigo' (polite language). It represents caution and careful action.

In a poetic or traditional sense, yes. For example, a craftsman might 'uyamau' his tools, but this is a very high-level use.

The direct opposite is 'karonjiru' (to make light of/disrespect) or 'anadoru' (to despise).

The noun form is 'uyamai,' but it is rarely used alone. Instead, 'keii' (respect) is the standard noun.