Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Present" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "present", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
差し出す
さしだす (sashidasu)
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 差し出す and 奉呈.
In Japanese, 差し出す (さしだす (sashidasu)) is typically associated with "to present, to submit, to hold out (one's hand)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 物を相手の方へ向けて前に出す、あるいは書類などを提出する際に使われます。/ Used when holding something out towards someone, or when submitting documents..
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 "差し出す"
名刺を差し出す。
Present one's business card.
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: "名刺を ＿＿＿ 。" (Meaning: "Present one's business card.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "差し出す" fits here because it means "to present, to submit, to hold out (one's hand)" in the context of: "Present one's business card.". "奉呈" represents "to present; to offer (to a superior, formally and respectfully)".