Composed of 賓 (guest of honor) and 客 (guest, visitor). A formal word used in diplomatic, governmental, and ceremonial contexts. Everyday usage would sound stilted; お客様 or 来賓 are more common alternatives depending on the context.
Common collocations
- 賓客を迎える: to welcome honored guests
- 賓客を招く: to invite distinguished guests
- 賓客用: for honored guests
Similar words
- 来賓: guest of honor — used for invited guests at ceremonies, graduations, and formal events
- 国賓: state guest — specifically a foreign head of state visiting officially
- 貴賓: distinguished guest — very formal; seen in 貴賓室 (VIP room)