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
応用
おうよう (ōyō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "application" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 申請 and 応用.
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, 応用 (おうよう (ōyō)) maps to "application; put to practical use; apply" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to applying knowledge, skills, or theories to practical situations or for practical purposes. It implies using something in a new or different context to solve a problem or create something new. 「知識や技術を具体的な状況で使うこと。学んだことを実際の場面で活かすという意味合いがあります。」. 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 "応用"
この理論は様々な分野に応用できる。
This theory can be applied to various fields.
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.". "応用" represents "application; put to practical use; apply".