Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Inquiry" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "inquiry", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
問い合わせ
といあわせ (toiawase)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
諮問
しもん (shimon)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "inquiry" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 問い合わせ and 諮問.
In Japanese, 問い合わせ (といあわせ (toiawase)) is typically associated with "inquiry, query" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the act of asking for information or making an inquiry, often to a company, organization, or customer service..
On the other hand, 諮問 (しもん (shimon)) maps to "inquiry; consultation; question (from an authority)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents This word is often used in formal or official contexts, particularly when a government body, committee, or higher authority seeks advice, opinions, or information from experts or other relevant parties. It implies a formal request for input or deliberation. It can be used as a noun. A literal translation of "inquiry" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "問い合わせ"
商品に関する問い合わせは、カスタマーサービスまでご連絡ください。
For inquiries regarding products, please contact customer service.
Bilingual Context for "諮問"
政府は専門家委員会に災害対策について諮問した。
The government inquired of the expert committee about disaster countermeasures.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "商品に関する ＿＿＿ は、カスタマーサービスまでご連絡ください。" (Meaning: "For inquiries regarding products, please contact customer service.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "問い合わせ" fits here because it means "inquiry, query" in the context of: "For inquiries regarding products, please contact customer service.". "諮問" represents "inquiry; consultation; question (from an authority)".