How to say "signature" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- noun, suru verb, transitive verb, intransitive verbThe everyday word for a signature or autograph, whether signing a receipt, a credit-card slip, or something for a fan. Casual and conversational in tone.
- 署名しょめいnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbA formal signature on a document, and also the act of signing petitions or statements. It emphasizes official or legal validity rather than a casual scribble.
- 調印ちょういんnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbThe formal, ceremonial signing of treaties, contracts, and other agreements, usually by officials. It denotes the act of signing rather than the signature itself.
- 記名きめいnoun, suru verb, transitive verb, intransitive verbWriting one's name on something, as when registering or entering a name. It is about the act of putting a name down, not a full signature in the everyday sense.
- 記帳きちょうnoun, suru verb, transitive verbEntering or writing one's name in a register or book, or making an entry; its link to 'signature' is marginal. It is really about registry entries, not signing a document.
Use 「サイン」 for casual everyday signatures or autographs, 署名 for formal signing of documents and petitions, 調印 for ceremonial signing of treaties and agreements, and 記名 or 記帳 for simply writing one's name on or in something.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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