Usage of 申す
申す is a humble (extra-modest) verb used instead of 言う (to say) when speaking about oneself or one's in-group to show respect to the listener. It is common in formal or polite contexts such as business, customer service, or respectful conversation.
Common contexts
- Introducing yourself: 私は〜と申します (I am called ~).
- Reporting what you or your group said: 〜と申しました.
- Asking politely what someone said: 何と申しましたか？
Collocations and patterns
- 〜と申します: Used to state your name or what you call yourself.
- 〜と申しました: Past tense, reporting what you said.
- 何と申しましたか？: Polite way to ask "What did you say?"
Register and politeness
申す is more humble than 言う and is used in keigo (honorific language). It is not casual and should be avoided in informal speech.
Common learner mistake
Confusing 申す with 言う in casual contexts. Remember 申す is humble and used only when referring to yourself or your in-group to show respect to others, not for others' speech.