Saying compliments is a wonderful way to show appreciation and acknowledge someone’s strengths or positive qualities. If you are interested in learning how to say compliment in Japanese, this guide will provide you with various phrases and expressions, both formal and informal, to express admiration and praise. Whether you want to offer kind words to a friend, a colleague, or a stranger, these tips and examples will help you navigate the world of Japanese compliments with confidence and cultural sensitivity.
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Formal Compliments
Formal compliments are commonly used in professional settings, to show respect, or when communicating with people you are not familiar with. Here are some phrases you can use in formal situations:
1. 褒め言葉 (ほめことば) – Praise
2. 絶賛 (ぜっさん) – High praise
3. お褒めに預かる (おほめにあずかる) – To be honored with a praise
4. 素晴らしいと思います (すばらしいとおもいます) – I think it’s wonderful
5. あなたはとても優れています (あなたはとてもすぐれています) – You are excellent
Informal Compliments
Informal compliments are used between friends, family members, or people who share a close relationship. Here are some phrases you can use:
1. すごい (すごい) – Awesome
2. 最高 (さいこう) – The best
3. かっこいい (かっこいい) – Cool
4. かわいい (かわいい) – Cute
5. 彼は本当にステキだよ (かれはほんとうにすてきだよ) – He is really wonderful
Additional Tips and Examples
To provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of complimenting in Japanese, here are some additional tips and examples:
1. Add “desu” for formality
When giving a compliment, adding “desu” at the end of a sentence will make the expression more formal. For example:
あなたはとても優れています (あなたはとてもすぐれています) – You are excellent
あなたはとても優れていますです (あなたはとてもすぐれていますです) – You are excellent (formal)
2. Use appropriate honorifics
In Japanese culture, using honorifics adds politeness and respect to compliments. Here are some examples of honorifics that can be used:
さん (さん) – Mr./Ms.
くん (くん) – used for boys or close male friends
ちゃん (ちゃん) – used for girls or close friends
様 (さま) – used to show respect to someone of higher status
先生 (せんせい) – teacher or mentor
3. Express appreciation for specific qualities
Compliments become even more meaningful when you highlight specific qualities or actions that impress you. Here are some examples:
その絵は上手ですね (そのえはじょうずですね) – Your painting is skillful
この料理の味は素晴らしいです (このりょうりのあじはすばらしいです) – The taste of this dish is wonderful
彼は勇敢な行動をしました (かれはゆうかんなこうどうをしました) – He took a brave action
Remember, conveying compliments in Japanese is not just about the words but also about the intention and sincerity behind them. Native speakers appreciate genuine admiration and praise. Don’t shy away from expressing your true feelings!
Now that you have a better understanding of how to say compliment in Japanese, both formally and informally, you can confidently express your appreciation and admiration to others. Remember to adapt your language and level of formality based on the situation and your relationship with the person you are complimenting. Enjoy sharing kind words and spreading positivity in Japanese!
