Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Application" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "application", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
申し込み
もうしこみ (mōshikomi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
応募
おうぼ (ōbo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "application" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 申し込み and 応募.
In Japanese, 申し込み (もうしこみ (mōshikomi)) is typically associated with "application; entry; proposal; subscription; request" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to applying for an event, submitting an entry form, subscribing to a service, or a proposal of marriage/business. Often used as 申し込み用紙 or 参加申し込み. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Application! "I submitted my application of eternal love to Haruka-san!" ...っ! T-To apply for eternal love! B-Baka! Since I also permit that application, the approval is... 100% granted! You are mine forever!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『もうしこみ（申し込み）よ！『ハルカ部長への「生涯にわたる永久愛の会員」への申し込み書類を提出します！』って…っ！そんな勝手な申し込み、バカ！…即時「特別名誉永久会員」として承認してあげるから、一生私の隣にいなさい！』.
On the other hand, 応募 (おうぼ (ōbo)) maps to "application, entry" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the act of applying for something. A literal translation of "application" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "申し込み"
その大人気の英語セミナーは、定員に達し次第締め切りとなるため、参加を希望される方はお早めに_______フォームから登録してください。
Because that extremely popular English seminar will be closed as soon as the capacity is reached, those who wish to participate should register from the application form early.
Bilingual Context for "応募"
その求人に応募してみるつもりだ。
I intend to apply for that job opening.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その大人気の英語セミナーは、定員に達し次第締め切りとなるため、参加を希望される方はお早めに_______フォームから登録してください。" (Meaning: "Because that extremely popular English seminar will be closed as soon as the capacity is reached, those who wish to participate should register from the application form early.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "申し込み" fits here because it means "application; entry; proposal; subscription; request" in the context of: "Because that extremely popular English seminar will be closed as soon as the capacity is reached, those who wish to participate should register from the application form early.". "応募" represents "application, entry".