Genki Grammar #114: Mastering Extra-modest Expressions

Introduction

In Japanese, there are specific verbs known as extra-modest expressions that are used to show modesty when speaking about yourself or your in-group. This grammar is commonly used in formal settings, such as business situations, customer service, or when you want to show a high degree of respect to the listener.

What It Means

Extra-modest expressions are special verbs used to speak humbly about your own actions. They are like adding “sir” or “ma’am” in English to make your language sound more polite. These expressions are different from normal polite verbs (verbs in Masu-form) and honorific verbs because they put you in a lower, more respectful position compared to the listener.

When to Use It

Use extra-modest expressions when you want to show humility or respect, such as:

1. During a formal introduction (e.g., job interviews).
2. When talking about yourself or your group (e.g., your family or company).
3. In customer service or business communication.

Common Extra-modest Verbs

Normal Verb	Extra-modest Verb	Romaji	Meaning
いる	おります	(orimasu)	To be
行く・来る	参ります	(mairimasu)	To go, to come
言う	申します	(moushimasu)	To say
する	いたします	(itashimasu)	To do
食べる・飲む	いただきます	(itadakimasu)	To eat, to drink
ある	ございます	(gozaimasu)	To exist (inanimate)
-ている	-ております	(-te orimasu)	To be doing
-です	-でございます	(-de gozaimasu)	To be

Examples

1. 私は来年も日本におります。
   (Watakushi wa rainen mo Nihon ni orimasu.)
   I will be in Japan next year, sir/ma’am.
2. 私は山田りくと申します。
   (Watakushi wa Yamada Riku to moushimasu.)
   My name is Riku Yamada.
3. 電車が参ります。
   (Densha ga mairimasu.)
   A train is pulling in.
4. お手洗いは2階でございます。
   (Otearai wa nikai de gozaimasu.)
   The bathroom is on the second floor.

Notes

Use with 私 (watakushi or watashi): When using extra-modest expressions, you may use the very formal first-person pronoun 私 (watakushi) instead of the more casual 私 (watashi) to show extra politeness and respect. This type of language is commonly used in business settings or formal speeches to show a reserved and polite attitude, making it appropriate for these contexts.

Never use for others: Do not use extra-modest expressions to describe the actions of someone outside your group, especially not the person you’re speaking to. This can sound rude and inappropriate.

Example:

先生はあした学校に参りますか。
(Sensei wa ashita gakkou ni mairimasu ka.)
Are you coming to school tomorrow, Professor?

Instead, use an honorific verb like いらっしゃる to show respect:

先生はあした学校にいらっしゃいますか。
(Sensei wa ashita gakkou ni irasshaimasu ka.)
Are you coming to school tomorrow, Professor?

Conclusion

Mastering extra-modest expressions is essential for maintaining proper etiquette in formal Japanese conversations. These verbs show respect and politeness, especially when talking about yourself or your group. By using these expressions correctly, you can express professionalism and appropriateness in formal situations.

Recommended Resources

For a deeper understanding of Extra-modest Expressions, I recommend “A Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar.”In this book, the topic is covered under Humble Polite Verbs, which clearly explains when and how to use these verbs correctly. It provides examples of using verbs like おります (orimasu) and 申します (moushimasu), making it easier to grasp the nuances of polite speech. If you want more detailed information, this book is an excellent resource.