「お/ご〜でござる」- Honorific Expression
Explanation
In Japanese, 「お/ご〜でござる」 is a highly polite and respectful expression used to show respect towards others or third parties. This expression is primarily used in fixed phrases and is commonly found in business or formal settings. It is formed by attaching お to the ます-form of Group 1 verbs, or ご to the stem of Group 2 verbs or nouns.
Grammar Pattern
| Grammar Point | Connection | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| お+ Group 1 verb ます-form + でござる | お+ verb ます-form | Used with native Japanese verbs to show respect for the action. |
| ご+ Group 2 verb stem/noun + でござる | ご+ noun/verb stem | Used with Sino-Japanese words to show respect for the subject. |
Basic Usage
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Native Japanese Verbs | |
| Sino-Japanese Words |
Examples
Here are some examples using 「お/ご〜でござる」:
社長 がお話 しでござる。- Shachou ga ohanashi de gozaru.
- The president is speaking.
ご連絡 でござる。- Go renraku de gozaru.
- We are in contact.
Deep Dive
「お/ご〜でござる」 is a somewhat archaic honorific expression. In modern Japanese, 「です」 or 「ございます」 are more commonly used. However, in specific contexts, particularly traditional or formal settings, 「でござる」 is still employed. For example, in high-end restaurants or traditional inns, staff may use this expression to show the utmost respect to guests.
Comparison and Differences
「お/ご〜でござる」 vs. 「お/ご〜です」
Compared to 「です」, 「でござる」 is more formal and humble. While their usage and connections are similar, 「でござる」 is typically reserved for highly formal occasions.
| Expression | Usage | Example | English Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| お/ご〜でござる | Formal and traditional settings | The president is speaking. | |
| お/ご〜です | Everyday and general settings | The president is speaking. |
Real-Life Scenarios
Here are some examples from real-life scenarios to help understand the usage of 「お/ご〜でござる」:
- この
料理 は特別 なものでございます。 - Kono ryouri wa tokubetsu na mono de gozaimasu.
- This dish is special.
ご案内 でござる。- Go annai de gozaru.
- Please follow me.
Summary
「お/ご〜でござる」 is a highly formal and respectful expression used to describe the actions, states, or things related to others. While it is less common in modern Japanese, it is still used in specific formal and traditional service settings. Understanding and mastering this expression not only improves your Japanese proficiency but also deepens your appreciation of Japanese culture and etiquette.