How to Say ‘Father’ in Japanese
お父上様
o tou ue sama
[o chi-chi ue sa-ma]
💬 Usage Tip: お父上様 [おとうえさま] (otouesama) is a very formal and respectful way to address one's father.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Family hierarchy and respect are strongly emphasized in Japanese culture.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[o]
honorific prefix
Used to add respect when addressing someone or something.
お茶を飲む。
Drink tea.
父
tou
[chi-chi]
father
Male parent; dad.
父が帰ってきた。
Father came home.
上
ue
[ue]
up
Position or level above something.
階段を上がる。
Climb the stairs.
様
sama
[sa-ma]
honorific
A respectful title appended to names.
先生様が来た。
The teacher came.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager