下座(げざ)

げざ
noun
lower seat, seat of lesser honor
1. lower seat, seat of lesser honor
The seat position farthest from the tokonoma (decorative alcove) or closest to the door in a traditional Japanese room. The seat taken by the person of lower status or the host. Opposite of 上座(かみざ).
新人(しんじん)は下座(げざ)に座(すわ)る。
Newcomers sit in the lower seat.
下座(げざ)は入(い)り口(ぐち)に近(ちか)い席(せき)だ。
The lower seat is the one closest to the entrance.
上座(かみざ)と下座(げざ)のマナーを知(し)らないと、ビジネスの場(ば)で恥(はじ)をかくことがある。
If you don't know the etiquette of upper and lower seating, you may embarrass yourself in business settings.

CULTURE:
Seating hierarchy (上座(かみざ)/下座(げざ)) is an important aspect of Japanese business and social etiquette. The rules apply in meeting rooms, taxis, elevators, and restaurants. Generally, the most senior person sits at 上座(かみざ) (farthest from the door), while the most junior sits at 下座(げざ) (closest to the door).

WORD FORMATION:
下(げ) (lower) + 座(ざ) (seat)

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 下座(げざ)に座(すわ)る: to sit in the lower seat
  • 上座(かみざ)と下座(げざ): upper and lower seating positions

Related Words

Antonym: 上座(かみざ)
general
Added 2026.2.16 10:06 · Revised 2026.2.19 21:42
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