At the A1 level, you should learn '取消' (torikeshi) primarily as a word you see on buttons and receipts. Think of it as the 'Cancel' button. In Japan, you will see this red or yellow button on ATMs, ticket machines at train stations, and on your smartphone. You don't need to use it in complex sentences yet. Just remember: if you make a mistake on a machine, look for the word 取消 to stop what you are doing. It is made of two parts: 'tori' (take) and 'keshi' (erase). It is very common in shopping contexts. For example, if you buy the wrong thing online, you look for the 'torikeshi' button to stop the order. It's a very helpful 'safety' word to know when you are navigating Japan for the first time.
At the A2 level, you can start using '取消' (torikeshi) in basic sentences to ask for help. You should know the phrase '取消をお願いします' (Torikeshi o onegaishimasu), which means 'Please cancel this.' This is useful at a store or a hotel. You should also understand that while 'キャンセル' (kyanseru) is used with friends, '取消' is the formal word found on paper and screens. You might start noticing it in compound words like '取消料' (torikeshiryou - cancellation fee). If you are studying for the JLPT N4 or N5, you might see the verb form '取消す' (torikesu). Remember that it is a 'transitive' verb, so you use the particle 'o' with it: 'Yoyaku o torikesu' (To cancel a reservation).
At the B1 level, you should be able to distinguish '取消' (torikeshi) from similar words like '中止' (chuushi) and '延期' (enki - postponement). You should understand that '取消' is about invalidating a previous decision or record. For example, if you say something wrong in a formal speech, you would say 'Hatsugen o torikeshimasu' (I retract my statement). You will also encounter this word in more serious settings, such as '免許の取消' (revocation of a license). At this level, you should be comfortable using the verb 'torikesu' in various forms, including the potential 'torikeseru' (can cancel) and the passive 'torikesareru' (to be cancelled). You will notice that in business emails, '取消' is preferred over the katakana 'kyanseru' to maintain a professional tone.
At the B2 level, you should master the legal and technical nuances of '取消' (torikeshi). In Japanese law, 'torikeshi' specifically refers to the act of voiding a legal act that was initially valid but had some defect, making it void from the beginning (ex tunc). This is distinct from 'mukou' (nullity), which means it was never valid at all. You will see '取消' in consumer protection contexts, such as the 'right to cancel' (torikeshiken). You should also be able to use the word in abstract contexts, such as 'torikeshi no tsukanai kettei' (an irrevocable decision). Your vocabulary should include synonyms like '撤回' (tekkai - withdrawal of a proposal) and '抹消' (masshou - striking out a record), and you should know exactly when 'torikeshi' is the superior choice.
At the C1 level, you are expected to understand the historical and kanji-based nuances of '取消' (torikeshi). You should be able to discuss the sociolinguistic reasons why 'torikeshi' remains the standard in bureaucratic and legal Japanese despite the overwhelming popularity of 'kyanseru' in the vernacular. You will encounter 'torikeshi' in high-level literature and editorial writing, often used metaphorically to describe the desire to 'undo' the past or erase a historical stain. You should be familiar with the 'torikeshi-sen' (strikethrough) in manuscript editing and the specific protocols for 'torikeshi' in corporate governance. Your usage should be precise, reflecting an understanding of the word's weight and the finality it implies in a culture that highly values commitments.
At the C2 level, '取消' (torikeshi) is a tool for precise legal and philosophical expression. You should be able to analyze the difference between 'torikeshi' (annulment), 'kaijo' (rescission), and 'tekkai' (revocation) within the Japanese Civil Code. You can use the word to discuss complex concepts like the 'voidability' of contracts due to fraud or duress. In academic or legal discourse, you might examine the 'torikeshi' of administrative acts and the subsequent 'recovery of the original state' (genjou kaifuku). Your command of the word should be native-like, allowing you to use it in subtle rhetorical ways to emphasize the absolute negation of a previous reality. You understand the word not just as 'cancellation,' but as a fundamental mechanism of Japanese legal and social order.

取消 in 30 Sekunden

  • 取消 (Torikeshi) means 'cancellation' or 'revocation' and is the standard term for the 'Cancel' button in Japanese software and machines.
  • It consists of the kanji for 'take' (取) and 'erase' (消), implying a formal withdrawal of a previous commitment or record.
  • While 'kyanseru' is common in casual talk, 'torikeshi' is the professional choice for business, banking, and legal procedures.
  • Key uses include cancelling orders, revoking licenses (免許取消), and retracting statements (発言の取消) in formal settings.

The Japanese word 取消 (とりけし - torikeshi) is a fundamental noun that translates most directly to 'cancellation,' 'revocation,' or 'annulment' in English. While English speakers might casually use 'cancel' for everything from a dinner date to a legal contract, Japanese distinguishes between the act of stopping something from happening (中止 - chuushi) and the act of invalidating something that was already decided or established (取消 - torikeshi). At its core, torikeshi implies a 'taking back' or 'erasing' of a previous action. It is composed of two kanji: 取 (tori), meaning to take or fetch, and 消 (keshi), meaning to erase or extinguish. Together, they paint a vivid picture of reaching out to grab a decision and rubbing it out of existence.

Legal and Formal Contexts
In the realm of law and official administration, 取消 is the standard term for the revocation of licenses, permits, or legal statuses. For instance, if a driver loses their license due to a violation, it is referred to as 免許の取消 (menkyo no torikeshi). This is a severe action, suggesting that the original permission has been completely voided.
Commercial and Service Contexts
When you shop online or book a hotel in Japan, you will frequently encounter this word. It refers specifically to the voiding of an order or reservation. While the katakana word キャンセル (kyanseru) is extremely common in casual conversation, 取消 remains the preferred term in formal terms of service, bank transaction records, and official receipts.

注文の取消をお願いします。(Chuumon no torikeshi o onegaishimasu.)

— Translation: Please cancel the order.

Understanding the kanji logic is helpful for long-term retention. The first character, , depicts an ear (耳) and a hand (又), originally referring to the practice of taking the ears of fallen enemies as trophies—a visceral image of 'taking' something. The second character, , combines the water radical (氵) with a character representing 'vanishing' or 'smallness' (肖), suggesting water washing something away until it disappears. When you perform a 取消, you are effectively reaching out and washing away a commitment that existed in time.

予約の取消料はいくらですか? (Yoyaku no torikeshiryou wa ikura desu ka?)

— Translation: How much is the cancellation fee for the reservation?
Digital Usage
In software interfaces, you will see 取消 on buttons that undo an action or dismiss a dialog box without saving changes. It is the Japanese equivalent of the 'Cancel' button in Windows or macOS. However, note that 'Undo' is usually 元に戻す (moto ni modosu), whereas 取消 is specifically for stopping a process or voiding an entry.

The grammatical application of 取消 (torikeshi) is relatively straightforward because it functions primarily as a noun that can be turned into a verb phrase. To say 'to cancel,' you can either use the noun form with the verb 'suru' (to do), as in 取消する (torikeshi-suru), or use the native Japanese godan verb 取消す (torikesu). In formal writing and complex sentences, the noun form is frequently seen in the pattern [Noun] + の + 取消.

Pattern: [Object] の 取消
This is the most common way to identify what is being cancelled. For example, 契約の取消 (keiyaku no torikeshi) means 'cancellation of a contract.' This structure is used in headlines, forms, and formal requests.
Pattern: 取消を行う (torikeshi o okonau)
This is a highly formal way to say 'to carry out a cancellation.' It is often found in legal documents or official announcements from companies. It adds a layer of professionalism and distance.

不適切な発言を取消します。(Futekisetsu na hatsugen o torikeshimasu.)

— Translation: I retract my inappropriate remarks. (Here using the verb form torikesu)

When using 取消 in the context of digital transactions, it is often paired with the particle を (o) to indicate the object of the action. However, in many UI/UX contexts, the word stands alone on a button. If you are speaking to a customer service representative, using the noun form 取消をお願いします is polite and clear. If you are speaking with friends about a plan, you might say キャンセルになった (kyanseru ni natta), which sounds more natural in a casual setting.

その決定は取消不可能です。(Sono kettei wa torikeshi fukanou desu.)

— Translation: That decision is irreversible (impossible to cancel).

Another important usage is in compound nouns. You will see 取消料 (torikeshiryou) for cancellation fees, 取消権 (torikeshiken) for the right of rescission in legal contexts, and 取消線 (torikeshisen) for a strikethrough line in text editing. These compounds show how versatile the noun is in specialized fields. Even at an A1 level, recognizing the 'tori' and 'keshi' components will help you navigate Japanese websites and official documents with greater confidence.

You will encounter 取消 (torikeshi) in several specific real-world scenarios in Japan. While it might seem like a 'boring' administrative word, it is actually one of the most critical words for a traveler or resident to know, as it often involves money, schedules, and legal rights.

Scenario 1: Transportation and Travel
If you go to a Midori-no-Madoguchi (JR Ticket Office) to return a Shinkansen ticket, the clerk will use this word. You might see it on the screen of a ticket vending machine when you hit the 'Cancel' or 'Back' button. In announcements, if a specific train run is voided from the schedule permanently (rather than just delayed), 取消 might be used, though 運休 (unkyuu) is more common for weather-related stoppages.
Scenario 2: Online Shopping and Banking
When using apps like Amazon Japan, Rakuten, or Mercari, the 'Cancel Order' button is almost always labeled 注文を取消す or simply 取消. Similarly, at an ATM, if you decide not to proceed with a withdrawal, the red button on the physical keypad or the screen will be labeled 取消.

「間違えてボタンを押したので、操作を取消したいです。」(Machigaete botan o oshita node, sousa o torikeshitai desu.)

— Context: Speaking to a bank teller after making a mistake on an ATM.

In Japanese media, such as news reports or legal dramas, 取消 is used when a politician retracts a statement or when a court annuls a previous ruling. It carries a sense of officiality. If a character in an anime says 「今の言葉、取り消せ!」 (Ima no kotoba, torikese!), they are aggressively telling the other person to 'take back what they just said!' This shows the word's transition from a dry administrative term to an emotionally charged command.

Scenario 3: Driving and Licenses
The phrase 免許取消 (menkyo torikeshi) is a dreaded term in Japan. It refers to the permanent revocation of a driver's license, usually due to serious offenses like drunk driving. This is much more severe than a temporary suspension (停止 - teishi).

While 取消 (torikeshi) is a versatile word, English speakers often misapply it in situations where other 'cancel' synonyms are more appropriate. Because English uses 'cancel' for almost everything, the specificity of Japanese can be a trap.

Mistake 1: Using 取消 for Events (Rain, etc.)
If a baseball game is called off because of rain, you should use 中止 (chuushi), not 取消. 取消 implies invalidating a specific record or agreement. A game being stopped is an event being suspended or halted. Saying 'The game was torikeshi' sounds like the game was legally expunged from history rather than just stopped.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 削除 (sakujo)
In digital contexts, 削除 means 'delete' (removing a file or text), while 取消 means 'cancel' (stopping an action or voiding a command). If you want to delete a photo, don't say torikeshi. If you want to stop the upload of a photo, torikeshi is appropriate.

❌ 雨でコンサートが取消になった。
✅ 雨でコンサートが中止になった。

— Explanation: Events are 'chuushi' (stopped), not 'torikeshi' (voided).

Another mistake involves the level of politeness. While 取消 is a noun, simply saying 「取消!」 to a shopkeeper is very rude. It sounds like a computer command. In person, always use 「取消をお願いします」 or 「キャンセルさせてください」. Lastly, remember that kyanseru (the loanword) is almost never used for legal things like licenses or court orders; for those, 取消 is mandatory.

To truly master 取消 (torikeshi), you must understand its neighbors. Japanese has a high density of words for 'ending' or 'stopping' things, and choosing the right one marks the difference between a beginner and an intermediate speaker.

1. キャンセル (Kyanseru)
The most common alternative in daily life. Use this for restaurant reservations, meeting friends, or casual shopping. It is softer and more modern than 取消.
2. 中止 (Chuushi)
Used for events, plans, or processes that are 'called off' or 'discontinued.' If a project is stopped halfway, it is chuushi. 取消 would imply the project never legally existed or its approval was pulled.
3. 撤回 (Tekkai)
Specifically means 'retraction' or 'withdrawal.' It is used for proposals, statements, or applications. If you submit a resume and then take it back, that is tekkai.
WordBest For...Nuance
取消Orders, Licenses, UIInvalidating a record
キャンセルHotels, DatesCasual/Common
中止Festivals, GamesStopping an event
無効Tickets, LawsBeing 'void' or 'invalid'

Another related term is 解約 (kaiyaku). This is specifically used for 'cancelling a subscription' or 'terminating a contract' like a phone plan or insurance. While 取消 might be used if you cancel within the first 5 minutes (voiding the entry), kaiyaku is used when you are ending an ongoing relationship with a service provider.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The kanji 取 (take) originally showed a hand holding an ear, representing the taking of war trophies. The kanji 消 (erase) shows water washing away a spark. So 'torikeshi' is literally 'Taking the trophy and washing it away.'

Aussprachehilfe

UK /to.ɾi.ke.ɕi/
US /toʊ.ɾi.keɪ.ʃi/
Heiban (Flat) style. The pitch starts low and rises, staying level through the rest of the word.
Reimt sich auf
hageshi (fierce) urameshi (reproachful) monomoshi (heavy) namamashi (fresh) kurashi (living) watashi (me) sukoshi (a little) tanoshi (pleasant - stem)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'ri' like an English 'r' (keep it tapped).
  • Adding a heavy stress on one syllable (Japanese is pitch-accented, not stress-accented).
  • Elongating the 'o' or 'e' vowels.
  • Misreading the kanji as 'shushu' (confusing 取 with similar kanji).
  • Pronouncing 'shi' with too much breath (keep it sharp).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The kanji are relatively simple and taught early, but the word is very common in daily life.

Schreiben 3/5

Writing '消' requires attention to the water radical and the right-side components.

Sprechen 1/5

Easy to pronounce with no difficult sounds for English speakers.

Hören 1/5

Very distinct sound, often heard in clear contexts like ATMs or announcements.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

取る (toru - to take) 消す (kesu - to erase) 予約 (yoyaku - reservation) 注文 (chuumon - order) ボタン (botan - button)

Als Nächstes lernen

中止 (chuushi - suspension) 延期 (enki - postponement) 変更 (henkou - change) 確認 (kakunin - confirmation) 返金 (henkin - refund)

Fortgeschritten

撤回 (tekkai - retraction) 解約 (kaiyaku - termination of contract) 抹消 (masshou - striking out) 無効 (mukou - invalidity) 遡及 (sokyuu - retroactive)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + を + 取消す (Verb form)

予約を取消す。

Noun + の + 取消 (Noun phrase)

予約の取消。

〜によって取消される (Passive)

法律によって取消される。

取消 + 可能/不能 (Suffixes)

取消不能なエラー。

取消 + 料/権/線 (Compound nouns)

取消料を払う。

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

取消ボタンを押してください。

Please press the cancel button.

Noun + ボタン (botan - button).

2

予約の取消をします。

I will cancel the reservation.

の (particle) links the object to the noun 'torikeshi'.

3

この注文は取消できますか?

Can I cancel this order?

Noun + できますか (dekimasu ka - can do?)

4

取消料は無料です。

The cancellation fee is free.

取消料 (torikeshiryou) is a compound noun.

5

入力を取消します。

I'll cancel the input.

Verb form: 取消す (torikesu).

6

間違えました。取消!

I made a mistake. Cancel!

Using the noun as an exclamation.

7

カードの取消をお願いします。

Please cancel the card (transaction).

Object + の + 取消 + をお願いします.

8

取消はここです。

The cancellation (button/option) is here.

Simple identification sentence.

1

昨日の予約を取消しました。

I cancelled yesterday's reservation.

Past tense verb: 取消しました (torikeshimashita).

2

取消し方を教えてください。

Please tell me how to cancel.

Verb stem + 方 (kata - way of doing).

3

急な取消は困ります。

Sudden cancellations are a problem.

Adjective + 取消.

4

メールで取消を知らせました。

I informed them of the cancellation by email.

で (particle) indicating means/method.

5

取消はウェブサイトでできます。

You can cancel on the website.

Topic + は + Location + で + できます.

6

今の言葉は取消してください!

Please take back what you just said!

Imperative/Request: 〜てください (te-kudasai).

7

名前の登録を取消しました。

I cancelled the registration of the name.

Compound object: [Noun] + の + [Noun].

8

取消の理由は何ですか?

What is the reason for the cancellation?

Question word 'nan desu ka'.

1

一度行った取消は元に戻せません。

Once a cancellation is made, it cannot be undone.

Potential negative: 戻せません (modosemasen).

2

システムのエラーで注文が取消された。

The order was cancelled due to a system error.

Passive voice: 取消された (torikesareta).

3

彼は不適切な発言をすぐに取消した。

He immediately retracted his inappropriate remarks.

Adverb 'sugu ni' (immediately).

4

契約の取消には書類が必要です。

Documents are required to cancel the contract.

〜には (ni wa) indicating requirement.

5

チケットの取消期限は明日までです。

The deadline for ticket cancellation is until tomorrow.

取消期限 (torikeshi kigen - cancellation deadline).

6

法律に基づいて免許が取消された。

The license was revoked based on the law.

〜に基づいて (ni motozuite - based on).

7

取消の手続きは非常に複雑だ。

The cancellation procedure is very complicated.

手続き (tetsuzuki - procedure).

8

どちらのボタンが取消ですか?

Which button is the cancel one?

Choice question 'dochira'.

1

不当な解雇の取消を求めて裁判を起こした。

They filed a lawsuit seeking the annulment of the unfair dismissal.

〜を求めて (o motomete - seeking).

2

その条約は一方的に取消された。

The treaty was unilaterally revoked.

一方的に (ippouteki ni - unilaterally).

3

誤解を招く表現を取消し、修正します。

I will retract and correct the misleading expression.

Te-form for connecting actions: 取消し (torikeshi).

4

取消権を行使するかどうか検討中だ。

We are considering whether or not to exercise the right of rescission.

〜かどうか (ka dou ka - whether or not).

5

承認の取消は重大な影響を及ぼす。

The revocation of approval has a significant impact.

〜を及ぼす (o oyobosu - to exert/cause).

6

遡及的に契約の取消が認められた。

The cancellation of the contract was recognized retroactively.

遡及的に (sokyuuteki ni - retroactively).

7

取消不能な指示を出してしまった。

I accidentally issued an irreversible instruction.

取消不能 (torikeshi funou - irreversible/uncancellable).

8

この決定を取消すことは容易ではない。

It is not easy to reverse this decision.

Noun clause: 〜ことは (koto wa).

1

行政処分の取消訴訟が提起された。

A lawsuit for the revocation of an administrative disposition was filed.

Technical legal term: 取消訴訟 (torikeshi soshou).

2

過去の過ちを取消すことは誰にもできない。

No one can undo the mistakes of the past.

Philosophical use of the word.

3

当該規定の取消により、混乱が生じている。

Confusion is arising due to the cancellation of the regulation in question.

〜により (ni yori - due to).

4

発言の取消だけでは事態は収束しない。

The situation will not be settled simply by retracting the statement.

〜だけでは (dake de wa - only with...).

5

一度失った信頼は取消によって戻るものではない。

Trust once lost is not something that returns through a simple retraction.

〜ものではない (mono de wa nai - not necessarily the case).

6

許可の取消基準を明確にする必要がある。

It is necessary to clarify the criteria for the revocation of permits.

明確にする (meikaku ni suru - to clarify).

7

彼は自らの意志で立候補を取消した。

He withdrew his candidacy of his own volition.

自らの意志で (mizukara no ishi de - by one's own will).

8

取消線が引かれた箇所を再度確認する。

Re-check the parts where the strikethrough lines were drawn.

取消線 (torikeshisen - strikethrough line).

1

瑕疵ある意思表示に基づく法律行為の取消し。

Revocation of a legal act based on a defective declaration of intent.

High-level legal terminology (Civil Code).

2

その判決は、原判決の取消と差し戻しを命じた。

The judgment ordered the revocation and remand of the original sentence.

Legal process term: 差し戻し (sashimodoshi).

3

歴史的な事実を取消すことは、一種の修正主義である。

Attempting to 'cancel' historical facts is a form of revisionism.

Abstract political/philosophical usage.

4

契約解除と取消の法的性質の差異を論じる。

Discuss the difference in legal nature between contract rescission and annulment.

Academic comparison structure.

5

取消権の除斥期間に関する最高裁の判断。

The Supreme Court's ruling regarding the statute of limitations for the right of rescission.

除斥期間 (joshiki kigan - exclusion period).

6

恣意的な免許取消は、行政権の濫用にあたる。

Arbitrary revocation of a license constitutes an abuse of administrative power.

〜にあたる (ni ataru - corresponds to/constitutes).

7

デジタル署名の取消リストを更新し、セキュリティを担保する。

Update the digital signature revocation list to ensure security.

Technical IT security context.

8

自己の存在を取消したいという実存的な不安。

The existential anxiety of wanting to negate one's own existence.

Existential philosophy context.

Gegenteile

Häufige Kollokationen

取消ボタン
予約の取消
免許取消
注文を取消す
取消料
発言の取消
取消不能
取消線
一方的な取消
遡及的取消

Häufige Phrasen

取消をお願いします

— A polite request to cancel something. Used in shops, hotels, and over the phone.

すいません、この注文の取消をお願いします。

取消しがつかない

— Something that cannot be undone or taken back. Often used for words or major life choices.

言ってしまったことは、もう取消しがつかない。

取消しになる

— To be cancelled (passive state). Used when an external force or situation causes the cancellation.

イベントが取消しになった。

取消しを食らう

— A casual/slangy way to say 'to suffer a cancellation' or 'to get revoked.'

スピード違反で免許取消を食らった。

取消しを求める

— To demand or request a cancellation formally, often in a legal or protest context.

住民は計画の取消を求めている。

今のなし、取消!

— A very casual way to say 'Forget what I just said!' or 'Take that back!'

さっきの冗談、今のなし!取消!

一括取消

— Batch cancellation. Used in computing or business to cancel many items at once.

未処理の注文を一括取消する。

取消待ち

— Waiting for a cancellation (to take a spot). Similar to 'waiting list.'

人気の宿なので、取消待ちをしている。

取消期限

— The deadline by which you must cancel to avoid a penalty.

取消期限を過ぎると返金されません。

全件取消

— Cancelling all items/entries in a list.

入力ミスがあったので、全件取消した。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

取消 vs 中止 (chuushi)

Chuushi is for events being stopped. Torikeshi is for records or agreements being voided.

取消 vs 削除 (sakujo)

Sakujo is 'delete' (removing data). Torikeshi is 'cancel' (stopping an action).

取消 vs 延期 (enki)

Enki is 'postpone' (doing it later). Torikeshi is 'cancel' (not doing it at all).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"吐いた唾は飲み込めない"

— Once you say something, you can't take it back (even if you try to 'torikeshi' it).

吐いた唾は飲み込めないと言うが、発言の取消は難しい。

Proverbial
"後の祭り"

— Too late (to cancel or change anything).

今さら取消しても後の祭りだ。

Idiomatic
"覆水盆に返らず"

— Spilt water doesn't return to the tray (irreversible/cannot be cancelled).

契約を取消したいが、覆水盆に返らずだ。

Proverbial
"白紙に戻す"

— To return to a blank sheet (to cancel a plan and start over from scratch).

交渉が決裂し、計画を白紙に戻した。

Business Idiom
"取り消し線を入れる"

— To cross something out (literally or metaphorically).

彼の名前にはもう取り消し線が入っている(彼はもう仲間ではない)。

Metaphorical
"前言を翻す"

— To go back on one's word (a more literary version of 'torikesu').

彼はすぐに前言を翻すので信用できない。

Literary
"棒に振る"

— To throw away (often used when a cancellation ruins a lot of effort).

取消のせいで、これまでの努力を棒に振った。

Idiomatic
"お蔵入り"

— To be shelved (when a project is cancelled and put away forever).

その映画は制作が取消され、お蔵入りになった。

Entertainment Slang
"水に流す"

— To let something wash away (to forgive and 'cancel' a past grudge).

過去のトラブルは水に流して、取消しましょう。

Cultural Idiom
"手を引く"

— To pull one's hand out (to withdraw or cancel participation in a deal).

リスクが高いので、この取引からは手を引く。

Business Idiom

Leicht verwechselbar

取消 vs 解除 (kaijo)

Both mean 'cancel' in a way.

Kaijo is specifically for 'terminating' a contract that was active. Torikeshi can be for voiding something before it even starts or because of a mistake.

契約を解除する (Terminate an ongoing contract).

取消 vs 撤回 (tekkai)

Both mean 'taking back'.

Tekkai is used for proposals or statements. Torikeshi is broader and used for orders, licenses, and UI buttons.

発言を撤回する (Retract a statement).

取消 vs 廃棄 (haiki)

Both imply getting rid of something.

Haiki is for physical disposal (trash) or formal scrapping of a treaty. Torikeshi is for abstract records/decisions.

ゴミを廃棄する (Dispose of trash).

取消 vs 失効 (shikkou)

Both mean a license or ticket is no longer good.

Shikkou means it 'expired' or 'became invalid' naturally. Torikeshi means someone 'revoked' it.

パスポートが失効した (The passport expired).

取消 vs 返却 (henkyaku)

Both happen when you don't want something anymore.

Henkyaku is 'returning' a physical object (like a library book). Torikeshi is 'cancelling' the transaction.

本を返却する (Return a book).

Satzmuster

A1

[Noun] の 取消

予約の取消。

A2

[Noun] を 取消します

注文を取消します。

B1

[Noun] が 取消された

免許が取消された。

B1

[Noun] は 取消できません

この注文は取消できません。

B2

[Noun] の 取消を求める

処分の取消を求める。

B2

[Noun] は 取消不能だ

その決定は取消不能だ。

C1

[Noun] に基づく 取消

規約に基づく取消。

C2

[Noun] の 遡及的取消

契約の遡及的取消。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

取消 (torikeshi) - Cancellation
取消料 (torikeshiryou) - Cancellation fee
取消権 (torikeshiken) - Right of rescission
取消線 (torikeshisen) - Strikethrough line

Verben

取消す (torikesu) - To cancel / To retract (Godan verb)
取消される (torikesareru) - To be cancelled (Passive)
取消させる (torikesaseru) - To make someone cancel (Causative)

Adjektive

取消可能 (torikeshi kanou) - Cancellable
取消不能 (torikeshi funou) - Irreversible / Non-cancellable

Verwandt

消去 (shoukyo) - Erasing
取得 (shutoku) - Acquisition
消印 (keshiin) - Postmark
受取 (uketori) - Receipt
消滅 (shoumetsu) - Extinction

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high in administrative and digital contexts; high in business; moderate in casual speech.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 'torikeshi' for a rainy day cancellation. 中止 (chuushi)

    Events are 'stopped' (chuushi), whereas orders or records are 'voided' (torikeshi).

  • Saying 'torikeshi' to mean 'delete a file'. 削除 (sakujo)

    Deleting data is 'sakujo'. 'Torikeshi' is for stopping a process or an agreement.

  • Using 'torikeshi' for an expired passport. 失効 (shikkou)

    Natural expiration is 'shikkou'. 'Torikeshi' implies someone actively took the status away.

  • Pronouncing it 'torikesh'. torikeshi

    Japanese syllables always end in a vowel (except for 'n'). Don't drop the 'i'.

  • Using 'kyanseru' in a court of law. 取消 (torikeshi)

    'Kyanseru' is too casual for legal or high-level administrative proceedings.

Tipps

Verb vs Noun

Remember that 'torikeshi' is the noun. To use it as a verb, you can say 'torikeshi suru' or use the native verb 'torikesu'. Both are common, but 'torikesu' is slightly more natural in speech.

The Red Button

In Japan, the color for 'Cancel' is almost always red, and it will be labeled '取消'. This is a universal design standard in the country, from elevators to ATMs.

Compound Power

Learning 'torikeshi' gives you access to many other words. If you see '〜料' after it, it's a fee. If you see '〜線', it's a line. Kanji is like Lego!

Politeness Matters

When cancelling a reservation over the phone, start with 'Moushiwake arimasen ga...' (I'm very sorry, but...) before saying 'yoyaku no torikeshi o onegaishimasu'.

UI Navigation

On Japanese websites, '取消' often sits next to '確定' (Confirm). Make sure you don't mix them up, or you might cancel what you meant to buy!

Serious Business

If you see '取消' in a legal document, pay close attention. It usually means something is being voided entirely, which can have big financial or legal consequences.

Tori-Keshi

Think of a 'Tori' (Bird) flying away because you 'Killed' (Keshi) the plan. The bird is gone—cancelled!

Waitlists

If a hotel is full, ask for 'torikeshi-machi' (waiting for a cancellation). It's a very common phrase for popular travel spots.

Kanji Strokes

When writing '取', the 'ear' part (耳) comes first. When writing '消', the 'water' (氵) comes first. Proper stroke order helps with legibility.

Pitch Accent

Listen for the rise in pitch after the first syllable 'to'. It stays high for 'ri-ke-shi'. This 'Heiban' pattern is very common for nouns.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine you have a 'Trophy' (TORI) but you 'Killed' (KESHI) the deal, so you have to erase it. TORI + KESHI = Cancellation.

Visuelle Assoziation

Picture a red 'X' being drawn over a 'Trophy' (取). The 'X' is the 'Water' (氵) in 消 that washes the trophy away.

Word Web

Cancel Revoke Undo Erase Void Retract Withdraw Annul

Herausforderung

Go to a Japanese website (like Amazon.co.jp) and try to find the '取消' button in your account settings (without actually clicking it!).

Wortherkunft

A native Japanese compound (Kun-yomi) combining the verbs 'toru' (to take) and 'kesu' (to erase). It represents the physical action of taking a record and wiping it out.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To take back something that was previously offered or recorded and make it disappear.

Japonic (Yamato Kotoba roots).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful when using 'Torikeshi' regarding people's words; it can sound accusatory if you tell someone to 'Torikese!' (Take it back!) too aggressively.

English speakers often use 'Cancel' for both events and orders. In Japan, remember to use 'Chuushi' for the event and 'Torikeshi' for the order.

The 'Revocation of License' (Menkyo Torikeshi) is a common trope in Japanese police dramas like 'Aibou'. In the anime 'Death Note', names cannot be 'torikeshi' (cancelled/erased) once written. Japanese UI design guidelines often specify 'Torikeshi' should be in a distinct color (usually red or gray).

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At an ATM

  • 取消ボタンはどこですか?
  • 操作を取消したいです。
  • 取消を押してください。
  • 間違えて取消した。

Online Shopping

  • 注文の取消を申請する。
  • 取消期限を確認する。
  • 取消はマイページから。
  • 取消メールが届いた。

Hotel Reception

  • 予約の取消をしたいのですが。
  • 取消料はかかりますか?
  • 当日の取消はできません。
  • 取消の確認書をください。

Office/Business

  • 会議の取消を連絡する。
  • 発言を取消させていただきます。
  • 契約の取消に合意した。
  • 指示を取消します。

Driving school / Police

  • 免許取消の処分を受ける。
  • 取消処分の通知書。
  • 取消し期間は終わった。
  • 免許の再取得をする。

Gesprächseinstiege

"すみません、さっきの注文を取消したいのですが、まだ間に合いますか? (Excuse me, I want to cancel my order from earlier, is it still in time?)"

"予約の取消料について、詳しく教えていただけますか? (Could you tell me more about the cancellation fees?)"

"間違えて取消ボタンを押してしまったのですが、どうすればいいですか? (I accidentally pressed the cancel button, what should I do?)"

"もし雨が降ったら、このイベントは取消(中止)になりますか? (If it rains, will this event be cancelled?)"

"今の発言、ちょっと失礼だったので取消させてください。 (That last comment was a bit rude, please let me retract it.)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

今日は何かを取消しましたか?その理由を書いてください。 (Did you cancel anything today? Write about the reason.)

もし人生で一つだけ過去の出来事を「取消」できるなら、何を取消したいですか? (If you could 'cancel' one past event in your life, what would it be?)

日本のATMや券売機を使って、「取消」ボタンを探した経験はありますか? (Have you ever used a Japanese ATM or ticket machine and looked for the 'Cancel' button?)

「キャンセル」と「取消」の使い分けについて、自分の考えを日本語でまとめてみましょう。 (Try to summarize your thoughts in Japanese on the difference between 'kyanseru' and 'torikeshi'.)

最近、予約を取消して残念だったことはありますか? (Is there a reservation you cancelled recently that you were sad about?)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, you can, but 'kyanseru' is much more common for appointments with people. 'Torikeshi' sounds a bit like you are filling out a form.

No, it is a full syllable, though in fast speech the 'i' after 'sh' can be slightly de-voiced. Always aim to pronounce it clearly as 'she'.

That is the 'Torikeshi' button. Press it to stop your transaction and get your card back immediately.

It is a neutral, formal word. To be polite, add 'o onegaishimasu' (please). Using it alone can sound like a command.

It means 'cancellation fee.' 'Ryou' means fee or charge. You will see this on hotel booking sites.

For 'Undo' in software (Ctrl+Z), use 'Moto ni modosu' (元に戻す). 'Torikeshi' is for the 'Cancel' button in a dialog box.

Yes, 'Yakusoku o torikesu' is a standard way to say you are taking back a promise.

'Torikesu' is the verb (to cancel). 'Torikeshi' is the noun (cancellation). Just like 'cancel' and 'cancellation' in English.

Rarely. If a goal is disallowed, they might say 'torikeshi.' But if the game is stopped, it's 'chuushi'.

Because it's a compound word. 'Tori' (取) means to take, and 'keshi' (消) means to erase. Japanese often combines verbs to make specific nouns.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write 'Please cancel the order' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'I cancelled the reservation' using 'torikeshimashita'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

How do you write 'Cancellation Fee' in Kanji?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'That decision is irreversible.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Take back what you said!' (Aggressive/Informal)

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write the Kanji for 'Torikeshi'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I made a mistake and cancelled it.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Where is the cancel button?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'revocation of license' in Kanji.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I retract my statement.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The deadline for cancellation is tomorrow.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Can I cancel this?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The order was cancelled.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'Strikethrough line' in Kanji.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'One-click cancellation.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'There is no cancellation fee.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Waiting for a cancellation.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Batch cancel all records.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I want to cancel the contract.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Please press the cancel button.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Please cancel' in a polite way.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I want to cancel the reservation.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'How much is the cancellation fee?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I accidentally pressed the cancel button.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Retract your statement formally: 'I retract my statement.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Inform someone: 'The order has been cancelled.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Where is the cancel button?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Is cancellation possible?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I take back what I said!' to a friend.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'This is irreversible.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Is there a cancellation fee?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I'm waiting for a cancellation.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I cancelled yesterday's plan.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Please tell me how to cancel.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I'll cancel the contract.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The cancellation is complete.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I'll cancel the input.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Until when can I cancel?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I demand a cancellation!'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Please cancel the card.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the word: 'TORIKESHI'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Torikeshi botan o oshite kudasai'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Yoyaku no torikeshi desu ne?'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Torikeshiryou wa go-sen-en desu'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Ima no hatsugen wa torikeshimasu'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Menkyo ga torikeshi ni narimashita'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Torikeshi funou na sousa desu'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Torikeshi kigen wa honjitsu juu desu'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Chuumon o torikeshitai no desu ga'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Torikeshi-machi no kata wa imasen'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Ikkatsu torikeshi o sentaku'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Gosousa de torikeshimashita'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Keiyaku no torikeshi o tsuuchi'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Torikeshi wa dekimasen'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Torikeshisen o hiite kudasai'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write 'I want to cancel the contract' in formal Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

War das hilfreich?
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!