How to Say ‘Father’ in Japanese
お父上様
おとうえさま
💬 Usage Tip: お父上様 [おとうえさま] (otouesama) is a very formal and respectful way to address one's father.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Family hierarchy and respect are strongly emphasized in Japanese culture.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
おお
[o]
honorific prefix
Used to add respect when addressing someone or something.
お茶を飲む。
Drink tea.
父とう
[tou]
father
Male parent; dad.
父が帰ってきた。
Father came home.
上うえ
[ue]
up
Position or level above something.
階段を上がる。
Climb the stairs.
様さま
[sama]
honorific
A respectful title appended to names.
先生様が来た。
The teacher came.
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