How to say "certification" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 認証にんしょうnoun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers certification in the sense of officially verifying that someone or something is genuine or qualified, and also authentication, as with credentials or identity. The usual choice for formal certification of persons, products, or systems.
- 公認こうにんsuru verb, transitive verb, no-adjectiveCertification as official recognition or authorization by an authoritative body, emphasizing that something is publicly endorsed rather than merely verified. Fits contexts where an organization officially approves or sanctions someone or something.
- 確かめたしかめnounReally the act of confirming or checking something oneself, and only marginally a way to say certification. Seldom the word you want for formal certification; use it when the meaning is simply making sure of something.
- 証明しょうめいnoun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers certification in the sense of proving or demonstrating that something is true, as in verification or evidence. Choose it when the emphasis is on establishing proof rather than on an official credential being granted.
- 認定にんていnoun, suru verb, transitive verbCertification as an authoritative body's determination that someone or something meets requirements, close in nuance to official acknowledgment or authorization. Often the right word when a qualification or status is formally conferred.
For credential-type certification use 認証 or 認定, for official approval use 公認, for proving something true use 証明, and for the plain act of checking or confirming use 「確かめ」.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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