Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Demand" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "demand", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
要求する
ようきゅうする (youkyū suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
支払督促
しはらいとくそく (shiharaitokusoku)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "demand" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 要求する and 支払督促.
In Japanese, 要求する (ようきゅうする (youkyū suru)) is typically associated with "to demand, to request, to require" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This verb implies making a strong request or a demand, often with an expectation that it will be met. It can be used in various contexts, from official requirements to personal demands. It's more formal and forceful than simply お願いする.
On the other hand, 支払督促 (しはらいとくそく (shiharaitokusoku)) maps to "demand for payment" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "demand" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "要求する"
会社は社員に残業を要求した。
The company demanded overtime from its employees.
Bilingual Context for "支払督促"
私は支払督促に興味があります。
I am interested in demand for payment.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会社は社員に残業を要求した。" (Meaning: "The company demanded overtime from its employees.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "要求する" fits here because it means "to demand, to request, to require" in the context of: "The company demanded overtime from its employees.". "支払督促" represents "demand for payment".