「食べる」- Honorific Form for Eating and Drinking

Explanation

In Japanese, the verb 「食べる」（たべる） typically means "to eat." However, in formal situations or when speaking to superiors, elders, etc., 「食べる」 can also be used as an honorific form to mean "to drink."

Grammar Pattern

Grammar Point	Connection	Explanation
食べる（たべる）	+ Noun	Used to mean "to eat" or "to drink" in honorific form

Basic Usage

When using honorific language, the verb 「食べる」 can be used to discuss the eating or drinking actions of others to show respect. This usage is common in business settings or formal conversations.

Examples

• 新あたらしい科長かちょうはどのくらいお酒さけを食べますか。
• Atarashii kachou wa dono kurai osake o tabemasu ka.
• How much does the new section chief drink?
  

• 社長しゃちょうは何なにを食べますか。
• Shachou wa nani o tabemasu ka.
• What does the president eat/drink?
  

Deep Dive

Scenarios for Using Honorifics

Using honorifics is an important way to show respect and politeness. Here are some specific scenarios:

• Business Meetings
  • 社長しゃちょうは何なにを食べますか。
  • Shachou wa nani o tabemasu ka.
  • What does the president eat/drink?
    

Common Mistakes

• Limiting 「食べる」 to only mean "to eat": In honorific language, 「食べる」 can also mean "to drink."

Summary

The verb 「食べる」 in honorific language is not limited to meaning "to eat" but can also mean "to drink." Using honorifics correctly in formal situations is an important way to show politeness and respect. By understanding and mastering these usages, you can communicate more effectively in formal settings.