恭敬

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 恭敬 is read as きょうけい and is a formal noun for deep, courteous reverence toward a teacher or venerated figure.
• Basic usage: Use 恭敬の念を抱く for an inward feeling and 恭敬の意を表す for expressing that attitude outwardly.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Inner reverence and outward expression
  • The disciples hold respect internally, while bowing before a statue gives visible form to that respect.
• More solemn than ordinary politeness
  • It is a literary or solemn expression for profound respect, not merely everyday courtesy.