Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Application" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "application", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
申請
しんせい (shinsei)
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 申請 and 応募.
In Japanese, 申請 (しんせい (shinsei)) is typically associated with "application, request (often formal to authorities)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a formal application or request, typically submitted to a government office, company, or institution. It's often used with する.
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 "申請"
パスポートの申請は今日までです。
The passport application is due today.
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: "パスポートの ＿＿＿ は今日までです。" (Meaning: "The passport application is due today.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "申請" fits here because it means "application, request (often formal to authorities)" in the context of: "The passport application is due today.". "応募" represents "application, entry".