ごれいそく
noun
your son; another's son (honorific)
formalhonorificfamily
1. your son; someone else's son (respectful)
A respectful term for the son of the person one is addressing or referring to, used in formal speech, letters, and ceremonial occasions. The female counterpart is 御令嬢(ごれいじょう).
御令息(ごれいそく)活躍(かつやく)(うかが)いました。
I have heard of your son's fine accomplishments.
Congratulations on your son's marriage.
社長(しゃちょう)御令息(ごれいそく)会社(かいしゃ)()ことになった。
The president's son is to take over the company.

Formed from the honorific prefix () + 令息(れいそく) (another's son). A formal keigo term used to elevate the listener's family; never used for one's own son.

Usage

  • Appears mainly in formal letters, speeches, and announcements (weddings, funerals, business).
  • In everyday conversation, 息子(むすこ)さん is the ordinary polite equivalent.

Similar words