san
word
Definition
A Japanese honorific added after a person's name to show politeness and respect. It is often similar to using Mr., Ms., or a polite name marker in English.
Usage & Nuances
Used after a name, not before it: 'Tanaka-san', not 'san Tanaka'. Common in Japanese contexts, anime, and discussions of Japanese culture. Do not use it as a general English title unless the setting is clearly Japanese.
Example Sentences
She wrote “Yuki-san” on the card.
basic
If you're emailing a Japanese client, adding san after their last name can sound more appropriate.
natural
In class, we called our teacher Sato-san.
basic
In Japanese, san is a polite title.
basic
I wasn't sure whether to say Kenji or Kenji-san, so I stayed formal.
natural
In the movie, everyone called him Mori-san, even his close coworkers.
natural