Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Present" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "present", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
呈する
ていする (teisuru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
奉呈
ほうてい (hōtei)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "present" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 呈する and 奉呈.
In Japanese, 呈する (ていする (teisuru)) is typically associated with "to present, to offer, to show, to assume (a form)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal verb often used with abstract nouns to express presenting an opinion, showing gratitude, or indicating a state/appearance. 意見、感謝、異議などの抽象的な名詞とともに用いられ、それらを差し出す、示す、あるいはある状態や様相を示すという改まった表現です。.
On the other hand, 奉呈 (ほうてい (hōtei)) maps to "to present; to offer (to a superior, formally and respectfully)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents A very formal and humble term used when presenting something to a person of very high rank. A literal translation of "present" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "呈する"
彼は会議で自分の意見を呈した。
He presented his opinion at the meeting.
Bilingual Context for "奉呈"
新年の儀式では、天皇陛下に書が奉呈された。
At the New Year's ceremony, calligraphy was presented to His Majesty the Emperor.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は会議で自分の意見を呈した。" (Meaning: "He presented his opinion at the meeting.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "呈する" fits here because it means "to present, to offer, to show, to assume (a form)" in the context of: "He presented his opinion at the meeting.". "奉呈" represents "to present; to offer (to a superior, formally and respectfully)".