Translation and Meaning of: 申す - mousu

The word 「申す」, read as "mousu", is a Japanese term that originates from ancient Chinese writings, composed of the kanji 「申」 which itself has various interpretations, including "declare" and "express". This verb is a polite form of "to say" or "to speak", used in formal or respectful contexts, an expression often found in situations where it is necessary to show deference or respect to the interlocutor.

In etymology, the kanji 「申」 is often associated with the meanings of "to express" or "to present." The radical 「田」, which represents "rice field," is a part of the kanji that often traces back to an older writing base related to concepts of vitality or growth, while the upper part can be seen as an abstract representation of expression or enunciation. Originally, the kanji had the connotation of "to speak or announce in public," being a term with deep roots in Japan's formal communication culture.

In the context of keigo, which is the honorific language of Japanese, 「申す」 is categorized as a sonkeigo, or respectful language. It is one way to demonstrate humility when referring to oneself or the group to which one belongs, always ensuring that the interlocutor is honored appropriately. It is often used in business settings or in situations where strict social etiquette is observed. For instance, when introducing oneself, someone might use 「申す」 instead of a more informal term to mean "I am [name]."

In addition to its use as a verb, 「申す」 also has derived forms that make it present in expressions like 「申し訳ありません」 (moushiwake arimasen), which means "There are no excuses" or "I'm sorry." This expression demonstrates a high level of deference in the apology, reflecting how the verb integrates into the complex nuances of Japanese communication. Its application shows not only a linguistic structure but also a cultural and social understanding of the interlocutor.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 申す

• 申す - ます form --> form ending in "masu"
• 申します - polite form
• 申しません - negative polite form
• 申しました - polite past form

Synonyms and similar words

• 申し上げる (mōshiageru) - Saying something respectfully
• 申し述べる (mōshinoberu) - Declare or express something respectfully.
• 申し上げます (mōshiagemasu) - Polite way of "saying" or "statement"
• 申し上げ (mōshiage) - Abbreviated form of "to say" respectfully
• 申し上げること (mōshiageru koto) - The act of saying something respectfully
• おっしゃる (ossharu) - Say (honorable form)
• おっしゃいます (osshaimasu) - Polite way of "saying" (honorable)
• おっしゃること (ossharu koto) - The act of saying (honorable)
• おっしゃります (ossharimasu) - Another polite way to "say" (honorable)
• 申し上げたい (mōshiagetai) - I want to say something respectfully.
• 申し上げた (mōshiageta) - Said respectfully
• 申し上げられる (mōshiagerareru) - They can be said respectfully.
• 申し上げられます (mōshiageraremasu) - A polite way to say "pode ser dito" (respectfully) is "pode-se dizer."
• 申し上げられ (mōshiagerare) - Short form for "to be able to say" respectfully
• 申し上げられた (mōshiagerareta) - It was said respectfully.