Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Inquiry" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "inquiry", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
諮問
しもん (shimon)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
下問
かもん (kamon)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "inquiry" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 諮問 and 下問.
In Japanese, 諮問 (しもん (shimon)) is typically associated with "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.
On the other hand, 下問 (かもん (kamon)) maps to "inquiry to a subordinate" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "inquiry" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "下問"
私は下問に興味があります。
I am interested in inquiry to a subordinate.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "政府は専門家委員会に災害対策について ＿＿＿ した。" (Meaning: "The government inquired of the expert committee about disaster countermeasures.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "諮問" fits here because it means "inquiry; consultation; question (from an authority)" in the context of: "The government inquired of the expert committee about disaster countermeasures.". "下問" represents "inquiry to a subordinate".