Meaning
The kanji 敬 (kei, kyō, uyama.u) embodies deep concepts of respect, honor, reverence, and awe. At its core, 敬 signifies a profound sense of regard and esteem. This applies to individuals, deities, or principles considered worthy of admiration. This respect often manifests as a humble and careful attitude, acknowledging the superior position, wisdom, or authority of the object of reverence.
Its origin lies in ancient Chinese characters. There, the form conveyed the idea of careful, cautious, or attentive actions, especially when interacting with superiors or sacred matters. The character's components subtly hint at this meticulousness. The top part (𠬝) suggests 'being careful' or 'orderly.' Meanwhile, the bottom right radical 攴 (bokuzukuri or 'strike' radical) doesn't imply violent striking here. Instead, it suggests 'to act' or 'to manage' with a specific demeanor, indicating careful adherence or guidance. This combination evokes the image of someone acting with precision and earnestness, reflecting true respect.
The visual shape, therefore, prompts a connection to deliberate and respectful conduct. It’s not just about a feeling, but also about the actions and attitudes that stem from that feeling. The 12-stroke kanji 敬 is taught in 6th grade. It's foundational for understanding social interactions and hierarchical relationships in Japanese culture. It is officially designated as an N2 level kanji under the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) system, underscoring its importance for intermediate learners.
Readings
On'yomi (音読み) — Chinese-derived readings
The On'yomi readings are derived from the character's original Chinese pronunciation. For 敬, the primary On'yomi is ケイ (kei), widely used in many common and important compound words. The reading キョウ (kyō) is much less common in modern Japanese. It typically appears only in very specific historical or classical contexts, and learners can often overlook it when focusing on daily usage.
ケイ (kei): This reading is prevalent in words expressing general respect, honor, and related concepts. It forms a cornerstone of Japanese social etiquette.
敬語 (keigo) — honorifics; polite language. Essential for showing respect in Japanese communication.
敬意 (keii) — respect; honor; deference. Refers to the feeling of respect itself.
尊敬 (sonkei) — respect; esteem; reverence. Often used for deep admiration of someone's achievements or character.
Kun'yomi (訓読み) — Native Japanese readings
The Kun'yomi reading connects the kanji to native Japanese words with similar meanings. For 敬, the primary Kun'yomi is うやま.う (uyama.u), forming the verb 敬う (uyamau).
うやま.う (uyama.u): This verb means 'to respect,' 'to revere,' or 'to honor.' It implies showing deference and high regard, often for elders, superiors, or sacred entities.
敬う (uyamau) — to respect; to revere. For example, 神を敬う (kami wo uyamau - to revere God).
老人を敬う (rōjin wo uyamau) — to respect the elderly.
先生を敬う (sensei wo uyamau) — to respect one's teacher.
Common Words & Compounds
The kanji 敬 forms a variety of compound words that are crucial for expressing nuances of respect, honor, and related social dynamics in Japanese. These words can be categorized by their thematic emphasis.
Words related to General Respect and Politeness
敬語 (keigo) — honorifics; polite language. The system of formal expressions used to show respect to the listener or person being spoken about.
敬意 (keii) — respect; honor; deference. The sentiment or feeling of respect.
尊敬 (sonkei) — respect; esteem; reverence. A deeper, often intellectual or moral admiration.
敬愛 (keiai) — respect and affection; reverence. Combining respect with love or fondness.
敬白 (keihyaku) — respectfully stated (used at the end of a letter). A formal closing in traditional correspondence.
Words related to Elders and Age
敬老 (keirō) — respect for the aged. Often seen in phrases like 敬老の日 (Keirō no Hi - Respect for the Aged Day).
敬老会 (keirōkai) — meeting to show respect for the aged.
Words related to Distancing and Avoidance (with respect)
- 敬遠 (keien) — keeping at a respectful distance; avoiding someone or something out of respect or prudence. In baseball, it means an intentional walk.
Words related to Piety and Caution
敬虔 (keiken) — pious; devout; reverent. Often refers to religious devotion.
自敬 (jikei) — self-respect; self-esteem.
敬慎 (keishin) — caution; prudence; circumspection; reverence.
Example Sentences
先生を敬うことは大切です。
Sensei wo uyamau koto wa taisetsu desu.
It is important to respect your teacher.
彼は誰にでも敬意を払います。
Kare wa dare ni demo keii wo haraimasu.
He shows respect to everyone.
日本では敬語を使うのが一般的です。
Nihon de wa keigo wo tsukau no ga ippanteki desu.
It is common to use honorifics in Japan.
私は歴史上の偉人を尊敬しています。
Watashi wa rekishijō no ijin wo sonkei shiteimasu.
I respect great figures in history.
老いた親を敬い、大切にするのは当然です。
Oita oya wo uyamai, taisetsu ni suru no wa tōzen desu.
It is natural to respect and cherish elderly parents.
彼女は周りの人から敬愛されています。
Kanojo wa mawari no hito kara keiai sareteimasu.
She is respected and loved by those around her.
失敗を恐れて新しいことに敬遠してはいけません。
Shippai wo osorete atarashii koto ni keien shite wa ikemasen.
You shouldn't avoid new things out of fear of failure.
彼の音楽に対する敬虔な態度は素晴らしい。
Kare no ongaku ni tai suru keiken na taido wa subarashii.
His devout attitude towards music is wonderful.
Memory Tip
To remember 敬, visualize a person who transforms their initial 'hasty' or 'casual' attitude into one of 'careful' and 'respectful actions'. This kanji combines a top element (often associated with 苟, suggesting hastiness) with the 'strike' radical (攴) at the bottom. Imagine someone who initially acts carelessly, but then "strikes away" (攴) that thoughtlessness. They replace it with a deliberate, attentive, and respectful demeanor. Picture them cautiously tapping a drum (攴) to show reverence during a ceremony, or carefully striking a respectful pose. The key is to associate the act of careful, deliberate action with showing respect or honor. This mnemonic emphasizes overcoming initial haste to embody a truly respectful posture.