Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Report" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "report", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
報告書
ほうこくしょ (houkokusho)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
具申
ぐしん (gushin)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "report" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 報告書 and 具申.
In Japanese, 報告書 (ほうこくしょ (houkokusho)) is typically associated with "report, written report, official report" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a formal, written document that presents information, findings, or analyses. Commonly used in business, academic, or governmental contexts..
On the other hand, 具申 (ぐしん (gushin)) maps to "report (in detail to a superior), submit a detailed report/proposal" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents 目上の人に対して、具体的な事実や意見、計画などを詳しく述べること。単なる報告ではなく、多くの場合、何らかの提案や進言を伴います。ビジネスシーンでよく使われます。. A literal translation of "report" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "報告書"
会議のために、新しい報告書を作成しました。
I created a new report for the meeting.
Bilingual Context for "具申"
彼は新しい企画を上司に具申した。
He submitted a detailed proposal for the new project to his superior.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会議のために、新しい ＿＿＿ を作成しました。" (Meaning: "I created a new report for the meeting.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "報告書" fits here because it means "report, written report, official report" in the context of: "I created a new report for the meeting.". "具申" represents "report (in detail to a superior), submit a detailed report/proposal".