27 September 2012
In Japan there are many different words you will have to use to address people to show respect. Always remember that if you DO address someone without using an honorary term for them is incredibly offensive and disrespectful. So always address someone using their honorary term!
Let's start with a super easy one!
San, this is a term that can mean Mrs., Mr., or Ms. See how simple that is! This is why I love the Japanese language! This term is used for addressing someone older or someone you might not know very well.
Next we'll learn kun, this is an honorary term commonly used for male friends.
Sama, this is a term used for addressing someone on a much higher level than you.
Sensei, this is mainly used for teachers but can also be used for doctors, and artists.
Senpai, this is an honorary term students use to address an older student.
Kohai, this is a term older students use to address the younger ones.
Chan, this is the term that can be used in the most ways. Note: this is the most informal honorary term ever so only use it for people you are very close to. You can use this to address children, animals, female friends, someone you've known since childhood, a boyfriend or girlfriend/husband or wife. The only scenario in which addressing someone you didn't know well with this term where it wouldn't be informal would be if you were to address a child with it.
Now here's how you address someone.
Example: Mr. Or Mrs. Green. Green-san.
Here is how you would address your close friend Akihiko.
Akihiko-kun!
Or say he's your boyfriend.
Aki-chan!
When you use the term chan with a friend or lover you abbreviate their name and then you add chan.
I hope this helps all you people who are trying to learn Japanese!
:)
Learn Japanese! : Honorary terms • Opuss № I