うやうやしい

うやうやしい
i-adjective
respectful, reverent, deferential
1. respectful, reverent, deferential
Describes behavior or manner that shows deep respect, often through formal gestures, careful handling, or humble demeanor.
うやうやしく頭(あたま)を下(さ)げた。
They bowed their head respectfully.
神主(かんぬし)がうやうやしく祝詞(のりと)を奏上(そうじょう)した。
The Shinto priest reverently recited the prayer.
うやうやしい態度(たいど)で接(せっ)する。
To treat someone with a respectful attitude.
賞状(しょうじょう)をうやうやしく受(う)け取(と)った。
They received the certificate with great reverence.

KANJI: Can be written as 恭(うやうや)しい, though hiragana is common.

NUANCE: Describes formal, ceremonial, or deeply respectful behavior that is often:

  • Deliberate and careful
  • Traditional or ritualistic
  • Sometimes excessively formal

COMMON CONTEXTS:

  • Religious ceremonies
  • Formal receptions
  • Handling precious objects
  • Meeting important people
  • Traditional Japanese settings

CONJUGATION (i-adjective):

  • うやうやしい: dictionary form
  • うやうやしく: adverbial (most common usage)
  • うやうやしくない: negative
  • うやうやしかった: past

COMMON PATTERN: うやうやしく + verb (describes respectful manner of action)

SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:

  • 丁寧(ていねい): polite (more everyday)
  • 恭(うやうや)しく: same word with kanji
  • 慇懃(いんぎん): courteous (more formal)
  • 敬虔(けいけん): pious, devout

CAUTION: Can imply excessive or overly elaborate formality when used ironically.

general
Added 2026.1.18 19:29 · Revised 2026.1.19 21:17
06500/06936_uyauyashii