Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Offer" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "offer", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
申し出る
もうしでる (moushideru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
たてまつる
たてまつる (tatematsuru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "offer" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 申し出る and たてまつる.
In Japanese, 申し出る (もうしでる (moushideru)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, たてまつる (たてまつる (tatematsuru)) maps to "to offer, to present (to a superior), to serve (a superior), to offer respectfully (humble verb)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A classical Japanese humble verb used to show extreme respect when offering something to a superior, serving a superior, or sometimes to refer to performing an action for a superior. Has a formal and somewhat archaic feel.. A literal translation of "offer" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "たてまつる"
神に供物をたてまつる。
To offer sacrifices to the gods.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はボランティア活動への参加を申し出た。" (Meaning: "He offered to participate in the volunteer activities.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "申し出る" fits here because it means "to offer, propose, volunteer, report" in the context of: "He offered to participate in the volunteer activities.". "たてまつる" represents "to offer, to present (to a superior), to serve (a superior), to offer respectfully (humble verb)".