敬う

• Reading: うやまう
• Romaji: uyamau
• Kanji breakdown: 敬 (kei/uyama) — respect, revere, honour
• Pronunciation: /ɯ.ja.ma.ɯ/

Meaning

To show respect for; to revere; to honour. To treat someone or something with deep admiration and deference.

A Group 1 (godan) transitive verb expressing profound respect or reverence. Used for honouring elders, ancestors, traditions, or nature. Carries deeper emotional weight than 尊敬する (formal respect) — 敬う implies heartfelt veneration. Central to Japanese cultural values of hierarchy and respect for others.

Examples

1. 日本では年長者を敬う文化が根付いている。 In Japan, a culture of respecting one's elders is deeply rooted.
2. 祖父母を心から敬っている。 I have a deep respect for my grandparents.
3. 彼女は自然を敬い、環境保護に力を注いでいる。 She reveres nature and devotes her energy to environmental protection.

Usage Guide

Context: cultural values, family, tradition

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

The kanji 敬 combines 苟 (careful, respectful) and 攵 (action), meaning 'to act with careful respect.' One of the foundational Confucian virtues that deeply influenced Japanese social ethics.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal