Use 尊い when describing something that truly merits respect or high value, such as a cherished tradition or a noble character.
Use 尊い when describing something that truly merits respect or high value, such as a cherished tradition or a noble character.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| この安いペンは尊いです。 | この安いペンは価値がないです。 |
| 彼は尊い人です。 | 彼は貴い人です。 |
| 彼の行為は尊いだった。 | 彼の行為は尊かった。 |
Use 尊い in internet comments when something makes you feel a strong, affectionate reaction, such as a cute animal video.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| この映画は尊いです。 | この映画は面白いです。 |
| 尊いキャラクターが好きです。 | かわいいキャラクターが好きです。 |
| 尊いに感動した。 | 尊いと感動した。 |
Use 尊い for genuine worth or honor, and reserve the slang usage for especially cute or touching online content.
Mixing up 尊い with 貴い when the nuance of respect is not intended.
From Classical Japanese 尊い (たっとい), derived from the noun 尊 ‘respect, honor’.
What does 尊い mean in everyday Japanese?
It means precious, valuable, or noble, describing something worthy of respect.
How is 尊い read?
It is pronounced tōtoi (とうとい).
Is 尊い an adjective?
Yes, it is an i‑adjective.
How do you conjugate 尊い?
Plain form 尊い, past 尊かった, negative 尊くない, te‑form 尊くて, etc.
What is the difference between 尊い and 貴い?
尊い emphasizes respect and honor, while 貴い focuses on inherent worth or nobility.
How is 尊い used in internet slang?
It expresses that something is extremely cute, adorable, or emotionally moving.
Can 尊い be used for objects like gadgets?
Not usually; it is reserved for things with intrinsic value or strong emotional impact.
What are common mistakes when using 尊い?
Confusing it with similar adjectives, using it for trivial items, or applying the slang sense in formal writing.
What is the origin of the word 尊い?
It comes from Classical Japanese 尊い (たっとい), derived from the noun 尊 meaning ‘respect, honor’.