Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Offer" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "offer", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
奉る
たてまつる (tatematsuru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
申し出る
もうしでる (moushideru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "offer" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 奉る and 申し出る.
In Japanese, 奉る (たてまつる (tatematsuru)) is typically associated with "to offer, to present (to a superior); to worship" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A highly formal and humble verb.
On the other hand, 申し出る (もうしでる (moushideru)) maps to "to offer, propose, volunteer, report" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To state one's intention, request, or proposal, often to a superior or an organization. It implies a voluntary action.. A literal translation of "offer" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "奉る"
神社に五穀豊穣を祈り、供物を奉った。
I offered food to the shrine, praying for a bountiful harvest.
Bilingual Context for "申し出る"
彼はボランティア活動への参加を申し出た。
He offered to participate in the volunteer activities.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "神社に五穀豊穣を祈り、供物を奉った。" (Meaning: "I offered food to the shrine, praying for a bountiful harvest.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "奉る" fits here because it means "to offer, to present (to a superior); to worship" in the context of: "I offered food to the shrine, praying for a bountiful harvest.". "申し出る" represents "to offer, propose, volunteer, report".