Uchikura & Co., LLC

My Company, Your Company: 弊社, 御社, and 貴社

 

One of the interesting features of Japanese business language is that there are different words for "company" depending on whose company you are referring to.

 

When speaking about your own company, you use 弊社 (heisha). It means "our company," but it is a humble expression. Rather than elevating your own business, Japanese etiquette encourages modesty when referring to yourself or your organization.

 

When speaking directly to someone from another company, you use 御社 (onsha), meaning "your company." The character 御 is an honorific that shows respect toward the other company. An interesting point is that this is reciprocal. If you call another company 御社, they will also refer to your company as 御社 when speaking with you. The term simply means "the company I am speaking to," not a specific company.

 

In written business communication, however, 貴社 (kisha) is the preferred term. Although it also means "your company," it is used in letters, emails, and formal documents. A simple rule to remember is: 御社 for speaking, 貴社 for writing.

 

These expressions illustrate an important principle of Japanese business culture. Language is used not only to communicate information but also to demonstrate respect and maintain good relationships.

 

Learning these three words may seem like a small step, but it can leave a strong impression when working with Japanese companies. In Japan, professionalism is often reflected in the details, and choosing the correct expression is one way to show both cultural understanding and respect.