When should I switch to keigo at work
You should switch to keigo at work generally in these situations:
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Always use keigo in the workplace as a basic rule, especially when you are new to a company. It is safe to use keigo with your boss, subordinates, clients, and colleagues until you understand the company hierarchy well. This is a common expectation in Japanese business culture to show respect and professionalism.
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Use keigo with older people, senior colleagues, team leaders, and anyone above your position in the company’s chain of command. Keigo shows respect for hierarchy and authority.
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When communicating with customers or clients, use keigo to foster trust and avoid offense.
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In formal settings like meetings, phone calls, emails, and interactions with superiors, keigo is essential.
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For new graduates in traditional Japanese companies, use keigo with seniors but tamego (casual speech) with other new graduates in the same year.
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If others start using more casual language with you, you may gradually adjust your style, but it is better to start more polite and then tone down if appropriate.
Overall, starting with keigo is recommended until you become familiar with your work environment and company culture. Using keigo correctly demonstrates respect, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity, which are highly valued in Japanese workplaces. 1, 2, 3
Understanding the Different Levels of Keigo
Keigo in Japanese is not a single fixed style but consists of several layers, each serving a different purpose and level of politeness. Recognizing these distinctions makes it easier to know when and how to use keigo appropriately.
Sonkeigo (Respectful Language)
Sonkeigo elevates the status of the person you are speaking about or to, often your boss, clients, or elders. It involves using specialized verbs or verb forms that show respect toward the subject of the sentence.
Example:
- Instead of saying 行く (iku, “to go”), use いらっしゃる (irassharu) or おいでになる (oide ni naru) when referring to the actions of a superior.
Kenjougo (Humble Language)
Kenjougo lowers your own actions or status out of respect for the listener. When speaking about yourself or your in-group’s actions, humble forms show modesty.
Example:
- Instead of 言う (iu, “to say”), use 申す (mousu) or 申し上げる (moushiageru).
Teineigo (Polite Language)
Teineigo adds polite endings such as です (desu) and ます (masu) to verbs and is the baseline polite speech level. While not specifically honorific, it keeps conversation respectful.
Example:
- 食べる (taberu, “to eat”) becomes 食べます (tabemasu).
Understanding these levels helps you tailor your language to the situation. Often, a combination of sonkeigo and kenjougo is used when addressing superiors or clients, while teineigo is common in everyday polite conversation.
When Not to Use Keigo: Avoiding Overuse and Misuse
While keigo is vital in Japanese business settings, overusing or incorrectly applying it can backfire.
Common Pitfalls
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Using Keigo with Close Peers or Subordinates Too Early: Over-politeness among close colleagues or junior staff can create distance rather than warmth. If the relationship allows, using tamego can foster better teamwork and approachability.
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Mixing Polite Forms Incorrectly: Combining different levels of politeness in one sentence (for example, humble and respectful forms inadequately matched) can sound awkward or even comical to native speakers. Learn set expressions and formulas carefully.
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Forgetting to Adjust Keigo Over Time: Starting with keigo is safe, but sticking rigidly to it even after a relationship becomes casual may seem stiff or insincere.
When Casual Language Is Appropriate
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Once mutual trust is established and seniors use less formal speech with you, it is usually acceptable to match their style.
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In unofficial office social gatherings, such as after-work drinks (nomikai), using tamego is often the norm. Yet, even here, err on the side of politeness when meeting someone for the first time.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transition Smoothly into Using Keigo at Work
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Observe the Workplace Culture: On your first days, listen carefully to how your coworkers, especially seniors and managers, speak to one another and to clients.
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Start Formal: Use polite expressions and basic keigo when addressing superiors or customers.
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Ask for Clarification If Needed: If unsure about whether to use keigo, default to politeness. It’s better to appear overly respectful than rude.
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Practice Key Phrases: Familiarize yourself with common keigo expressions used in your company’s communication, such as greetings, requests, and apologies.
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Notice When Others Relax Their Language: When senior colleagues begin using more casual or softened language toward you, test lowering your keigo accordingly.
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Adapt to Different Contexts: Recognize that keigo use can vary depending on the setting — emails require more formality than casual office conversations.
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Seek Feedback: If possible, ask a trusted colleague or supervisor to correct your language use or suggest improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Keigo at Work
Can I use keigo with colleagues of the same rank?
Generally, use polite language (teineigo) with colleagues of the same rank, but keigo is usually reserved for those higher in the hierarchy. However, in very formal companies, some degree of keigo may be used even horizontally out of habit.
Is it okay to decline using keigo if it feels unnatural?
Not usually. In Japanese business culture, keigo is more than just politeness — it’s a sign of respect that affects relationships and career progression. Struggling with natural use is normal; continued practice improves fluency.
How long does it take to switch comfortably to keigo?
This varies by individual and company culture. Some new employees adjust within a few months, while others take longer to feel confident in their keigo usage.
Does keigo usage differ in startups versus traditional companies?
Yes. Startups tend to use a more casual tone compared to traditional firms, which often maintain strict keigo protocols. Observe your specific company culture carefully.
Using keigo correctly at work is a critical skill for navigating Japanese business culture. It fosters respect, smooth communication, and trust in professional relationships. Mastery of keigo not only enhances your language ability but can also open doors within your workplace.