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.
Formed from the honorific prefix 御 + 令息 (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, 息子さん is the ordinary polite equivalent.