ご覧になる

• Reading: ごらんになる
• Romaji: goran ni naru
• Kanji breakdown: 覧 (ran) — look, view, inspect
• Pronunciation: /ɡo.ɾa.ɴ.ni.na.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To look; to see (honorific). The respectful form of 見る, used when referring to the actions of someone of higher status.

An honorific expression combining the prefix ご, the noun 覧 (viewing), and になる. Part of the special honorific verb set tested at N4. Used in place of 見る when speaking about superiors, customers, or respected persons. The imperative ご覧ください is a polite way to say 'please look.'

Examples

1. 先生はもうこの映画をご覧になりましたか。 Have you already seen this movie, Professor?
2. どうぞこちらの資料をご覧ください。 Please take a look at these materials.
3. 社長がニュースをご覧になっている。 The president is watching the news.

Usage Guide

Context: business, customer service, polite conversation

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

Composed of the honorific prefix ご, the kanji 覧 (view/look over, used in classical documents), and になる (to become). Originally referred to high-ranking officials reviewing documents.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal