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A1 noun #3,189 am häufigsten 10 Min. Lesezeit

証書

shōsho Top 3,189

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At the A1 level, you only need to know 証書 (shōsho) in one specific context: graduation. In Japan, even young children hear this word when they finish kindergarten or elementary school. Think of it as a 'very important paper' that you get when you finish school. You don't need to worry about legal deeds or banking yet. Just remember that it is a noun, and it usually appears in the phrase '卒業証書' (sotsugyō shōsho), which means 'graduation certificate.' You might say '証書をもらいました' (I got the certificate). It is a polite, formal word, so you will see it used with polite verbs like 'もらいました' or 'あります.' Focus on recognizing the word when you see a formal-looking document with a seal. It is a 'big' word for a 'big' moment.

At the A2 level, you can begin to expand your understanding of 証書 beyond just graduation. You might encounter it in simple financial contexts, like a 'bank certificate' (預金証書 - yokin shōsho) or a basic 'insurance paper' (保険証書 - hoken shōsho). You should understand that this word refers to a physical object—a piece of paper that you must not lose. You might hear someone ask, '証書はどこですか？' (Where is the certificate?). You should also be able to use simple verbs like '出す' (dasu - to take out/submit) or '見せる' (miseru - to show) with it. For example, '保険証書を見せてください' (Please show me your insurance certificate). At this level, you are learning that 証書 is a formal category of documents that carry more weight than a simple letter or note.

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At the B1 level, you should understand the distinction between 証書 (shōsho) and 証明書 (shōmeisho). While both are translated as 'certificate,' you should start to notice that 証書 is used for deeds and diplomas, whereas 証明書 is used for things like identity or health status. You will encounter 証書 in more complex compound nouns like '借用証書' (shakuyō shōsho - a promissory note or IOU). You should be able to describe the purpose of the document using the particle 'の' or basic relative clauses. For example, 'これはお金を借りた時の証書です' (This is the certificate from when I borrowed money). You should also be familiar with the formal verb '授与する' (juyo suru - to confer/award), which is almost always used when 証書 refers to a diploma. Your vocabulary is becoming more professional.

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At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 証書 in professional and legal contexts. You will learn about '公正証書' (kōsei shōsho - notarized deed), which is a vital concept in Japanese business and family law. You should understand how these documents are used as evidence (証拠 - shōko) in legal disputes. You will also see 証書 in the context of '証券' (shōken - securities), understanding that these are transferable certificates of value. Your ability to use the word should include formal verbs like '発行する' (hakkō suru - to issue) and '作成する' (sakse suru - to create/draw up). You might say, '公証人に公正証書の作成を依頼しました' (I requested a notary to create a notarized deed). You are now using the word in the same way a native speaker would in a business or legal setting.

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At the C1 level, you have a nuanced understanding of the legal implications of 証書. You understand the difference between 'dispositive' documents (those that create a right, like a contract) and 'evidentiary' documents (those that prove a pre-existing fact). You can discuss the historical evolution of 証書 in the Japanese legal system and its relationship with the 'hanko' (seal) culture. You should be able to read and understand complex legal texts where 証書 is used, such as '債務弁済契約公正証書' (notarized deed for a debt settlement contract). You can also use the word metaphorically in high-level literature, though its primary use remains technical. You are expected to handle the word with precision, avoiding any confusion with similar terms like 証跡 (shōseki - audit trail) or 認証 (ninshō - authentication).

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At the C2 level, you possess a mastery of 証書 that allows you to navigate the most complex legal and financial environments in Japan. You understand the specific legal requirements for a document to be classified as a 証書 under the Civil Code and the Notary Act. You can explain the 'probative value' (証拠力 - shōkoryoku) of different types of 証書 and how they affect the burden of proof in litigation. You are familiar with rare and specialized terms like '嘱託証書' (shokutaku shōsho - a deed created by request) and can discuss the implications of digital signatures on the traditional concept of a physical 証書. Your usage is indistinguishable from that of a Japanese legal professional or a high-level government official. You can analyze the stylistic choices in the drafting of these documents and provide expert commentary on their validity.

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証書 in 30 Sekunden

A formal noun meaning 'certificate' or 'deed' used for official and legal purposes.
Commonly seen in graduation (卒業証書) and financial contexts (保険証書, 預金証書).
Carries more legal weight than a general document (書類) or proof (証明).
Essential for proving academic completion, insurance rights, or debt obligations in Japan.

The Japanese word 証書 (shōsho) is a formal noun that refers to a written document or instrument that serves as tangible evidence of a legal fact, a right, or an obligation. In the hierarchy of Japanese documentation, a 証書 carries significant weight, often representing the final, official record of a transaction or achievement. Unlike more general terms like 書類 (shorui, meaning general papers or documents), 証書 specifically implies a high degree of formality and legal or institutional validity. It is the physical manifestation of a promise or a status change.

Etymology and Kanji: The first kanji, 証 (shō), means 'proof,' 'evidence,' or 'to testify.' It consists of the 'speech' radical (言) and 'correct' (正), suggesting that the words spoken or written are verified as true. The second kanji, 書 (sho), means 'writing' or 'document.' Together, they literally translate to 'proof writing' or 'document of evidence.'

卒業式で、校長先生から卒業証書を受け取りました。 (At the graduation ceremony, I received my graduation certificate from the principal.)

In modern Japan, you will encounter this word in several critical life milestones. One of the most common is the 卒業証書 (sotsugyō shōsho), which is the diploma given to students upon completing their studies. While in English we might just say 'diploma,' the Japanese term emphasizes that the paper itself is the 'certificate of evidence' for their academic completion. Another common usage is in the financial sector, such as 借用証書 (shakuyō shōsho), which is a formal IOU or promissory note used when borrowing money. This is not just a casual note but a legally binding document that can be used in court to prove a debt exists.

Legal Contexts: In legal settings, you might hear about 公正証書 (kōsei shōsho), which is a 'notarized deed.' These are documents prepared by a notary public (公証人) and are considered highly reliable evidence in legal disputes, often allowing for immediate compulsory execution without a court trial if the debtor defaults.

契約の内容を公正証書にまとめました。 (The contents of the contract were summarized in a notarized deed.)

保険証書は大切に保管してください。 (Please keep your insurance policy certificate safely.)

Financial Usage: In banking, a 預金証書 (yokin shōsho) is a certificate of deposit. It proves that a specific amount of money has been placed in an account under certain terms. Similarly, a 証券 (shōken) is a security or bond, which is a specialized type of 証書 used in investment markets.

この証書があれば、権利を主張できます。 (With this certificate, you can claim your rights.)

紛失した証書の再発行を申請しました。 (I applied for the re-issuance of the lost certificate.)

Ultimately, 証書 is a word that signifies gravity. It is not used for shopping lists or casual letters. When you hear this word, you should recognize that a significant, formal, and likely legally binding process is involved. It is the 'paper trail' that defines one's legal and social standing in various institutions.

Using 証書 (shōsho) correctly requires understanding its role as a formal noun that often takes specific verbs and particles. Because it refers to a physical document of high importance, it is frequently paired with verbs related to receiving, issuing, submitting, or keeping.

Common Verb Pairings: The most common verbs used with 証書 include: 授与する (juyo suru - to award/confer), 発行する (hakkō suru - to issue), 提出する (teishutsu suru - to submit), 保管する (hokan suru - to keep/store), and 紛失する (funshitsu suru - to lose). For example, at a graduation, the principal 'confers' (授与する) the certificate.

大学は彼に学位証書を授与した。 (The university conferred a degree certificate upon him.)

Modifying 証書: To specify the type of certificate, you simply place the qualifying noun before 証書. For instance: 契約 (keiyaku - contract) + 証書 = 契約証書 (contract deed). 寄付 (kifu - donation) + 証書 = 寄付証書 (donation certificate). This compounding is extremely common in professional and legal Japanese.

この借用証書には、あなたの署名が必要です。 (This promissory note requires your signature.)

銀行から預金証書が郵送されてきた。 (A certificate of deposit was mailed from the bank.)

Using with Copulas: In simple identification, you use です (desu) or だ (da). 'This is the certificate' becomes 'これは証書です'. In more formal explanations, you might see 'これは～を証明する証書である' (This is a certificate that proves...).

それは単なる紙切れではなく、法的な証書です。 (That is not just a piece of paper; it is a legal certificate.)

彼はその証書を金庫にしまった。 (He put that certificate in the safe.)

In summary, 証書 functions as a concrete noun. It is 'the thing' you hold in your hand at a ceremony or sign at a lawyer's office. Its usage is marked by high-register verbs and precise compound naming, reflecting its importance in society.

While 証書 (shōsho) is not a word you would use while chatting with friends at a cafe, it is ubiquitous in specific formal environments in Japan. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word when it matters most.

Educational Ceremonies: The most emotional and widespread use of the word is during graduation ceremonies (卒業式 - sotsugyōshiki). You will hear the announcer say '卒業証書授与' (sotsugyō shōsho juyo), which translates to 'Conferring of Graduation Certificates.' This is the climax of the ceremony where students walk across the stage. For many Japanese people, the word 証書 is intrinsically linked to the smell of the gym and the sound of the school song.

「卒業証書、授与！」という声が体育館に響いた。 (The voice saying 'Graduation certificate, conferral!' echoed through the gymnasium.)

Legal and Notary Offices: If you are involved in a real estate transaction, a divorce settlement, or writing a will in Japan, you will visit a Kōshō-yakuba (notary office). Here, the word 公正証書 (kōsei shōsho - notarized deed) is used constantly. Lawyers and notaries will refer to 'drafting the 証書' or 'signing the 証書.' In this context, the word carries the weight of state authority.

公証役場で公正証書を作成しました。 (We created a notarized deed at the notary office.)

Financial and Insurance Institutions: Banks and insurance companies are the third major area where you will hear 証書. When you take out a life insurance policy, you receive a 保険証書 (hoken shōsho). When you open a fixed-term deposit, you get a 預金証書 (yokin shōsho). Customer service representatives will often ask, '証書はお持ちですか？' (Do you have the certificate/policy with you?).

保険の請求には、この保険証書が必要です。 (This insurance policy certificate is required for the insurance claim.)

借用証書の内容をもう一度確認してください。 (Please check the contents of the promissory note once more.)

彼は古い預金証書を机の奥から見つけた。 (He found an old certificate of deposit from the back of his desk.)

From the solemnity of a graduation stage to the clinical environment of a bank, 証書 is the word that signals 'this paper is important.' It is a word of record, authority, and formal proof.

Even for advanced learners, 証書 (shōsho) can be tricky because it overlaps with several other 'document' related words. The most common errors involve using it in the wrong register or confusing it with similar-looking kanji compounds.

Mistake 1: Confusing 証書 with 証明書 (shōmeisho): This is the most frequent error. While both can be translated as 'certificate,' they are not interchangeable. 証明書 is a general term for anything that proves a fact (like a residence certificate or a COVID vaccination certificate). 証書 is more specific to legal deeds, diplomas, or financial instruments. You wouldn't call a simple residence certificate (住民票) a 証書. Conversely, a graduation certificate is almost always called a 卒業証書, not a 卒業証明書 (though the latter term exists for the 'official transcript' version used for job applications).

❌ 住民票の証書をください。 (Incorrect: Please give me a residence certificate 'deed'.)
✅ 住民票の証明書をください。 (Correct: Please give me a residence certificate.)

Mistake 2: Using it for Casual Documents: Because 証書 sounds very 'heavy,' using it for everyday paperwork (like a flyer, a report, or a letter) sounds bizarre. For these, use 書類 (shorui) or 文書 (bunsho). Using 証書 for a project report at work would be a major register error.

❌ 会議の証書を配ります。 (Incorrect: I will distribute the 'legal deeds' of the meeting.)
✅ 会議の資料を配ります。 (Correct: I will distribute the meeting materials.)

Mistake 3: Pronunciation/Kanji Mix-ups: Sometimes learners confuse 証書 (shōsho) with 聖書 (seisho - Bible) or 秘書 (hisho - secretary) due to similar phonetics. Pay close attention to the long 'o' sound in both syllables of shōsho (しょうしょ). Also, ensure you don't write 証書 when you mean 証言 (shōgen - testimony).

❌ 彼は裁判で証書を述べた。 (Incorrect: He stated a 'certificate' in court.)
✅ 彼は裁判で証言を述べた。 (Correct: He gave testimony in court.)

保険の証書を再発行してもらう。 (Get the insurance policy re-issued.)

その証書の有効期限は切れています。 (The validity period of that certificate has expired.)

Avoiding these mistakes requires a sensitivity to the 'weight' of the document you are describing. If it’s a document that defines a permanent status or a major legal obligation, 証書 is likely the right choice.

To master 証書 (shōsho), you must see how it sits among its synonyms. Each has a specific nuance that makes it suitable for different situations.

証明書 (Shōmeisho) vs. 証書 (Shōsho): As mentioned, 証明書 is a 'certificate' in the sense of proving a fact (e.g., birth, health, identity). 証書 is the 'instrument' itself. Think of 証書 as the original deed and 証明書 as a certified copy or a document verifying a status. Use 証明書 for ID cards and medical certs; use 証書 for diplomas and insurance policies.

証券 (Shōken) vs. 証書 (Shōsho): 証券 refers to securities, stocks, or bonds—documents that represent financial value and can often be traded. While a 証券 is technically a type of 証書, 証券 is the specific term used in the financial markets. You wouldn't call a graduation certificate a 証券.

有価証券の取引には注意が必要です。 (Care is needed in the trading of valuable securities.)

証 (Akashi) vs. 証書 (Shōsho): 証 (akashi) is a more poetic or abstract word for 'proof' or 'token.' For example, a ring might be a 'token of love' (愛の証 - ai no akashi). 証書 is never used abstractly; it always refers to a physical, formal document.

これは私たちの友情の証です。 (This is a token of our friendship.)

文書 (Bunsho) vs. 証書 (Shōsho): 文書 is a general term for 'writings' or 'documents,' often used in the context of archives or official records (e.g., 公文書 - official government documents). 証書 is a specific subset of 文書 that focuses on the 'proof' aspect for an individual or entity.

機密文書の取り扱いには厳重な注意を払う。 (Pay strict attention to the handling of confidential documents.)

彼は学位証書を額縁に入れて飾った。 (He put his degree certificate in a frame and displayed it.)

契約の締結後、証書が両者に交付された。 (After the signing of the contract, the deed was delivered to both parties.)

By comparing 証書 with these alternatives, you can see its unique position as the formal 'proof-paper' of Japanese society.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In the Edo period, 'shōsho' were often written on 'washi' (traditional paper) and required a 'kao' (stylized signature) or a 'hanko' (seal) to be valid, a tradition that continues in spirit today.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈʃəʊ.ʃɒ/

US /ˈʃoʊ.ʃoʊ/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 証書, the pitch is typically high on the first 'sho' and drops on the second 'sho' (Heiban or Atamadaka depending on dialect, but usually flat-to-low).

Reimt sich auf

Kōshō (Negotiation) Hōshō (Guarantee) Jōshō (Rising) Koshō (Breakdown) Sōshō (General name) Tōshō (Climbing) Yōshō (Childhood) Bōshō (Collateral evidence)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing it as 'shosho' (short vowels) instead of 'shōshō' (long vowels).
Confusing it with 'seisho' (Bible).
Confusing it with 'shoushou' (a little bit - 少々).
Mispronouncing the 'sh' as a 's' sound.
Putting the stress on the wrong syllable like English.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

The kanji are standard but require knowledge of the 'speech' radical. Common in formal texts.

Schreiben 4/5

Writing 証 correctly with its many strokes can be challenging for beginners.

Sprechen 2/5

Pronunciation is easy, but long vowels must be maintained.

Hören 3/5

Can be confused with other 'sho' words if not heard clearly.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

書く (To write) 証明 (Proof) 学校 (School) お金 (Money) 大事 (Important)

Als Nächstes lernen

証拠 (Evidence) 契約 (Contract) 保証 (Guarantee) 公証役場 (Notary office) 有価証券 (Securities)

Fortgeschritten

嘱託 (Commission/Request) 執行力 (Executive power) 謄本 (Certified copy) 認証 (Authentication) 遡及 (Retroactivity)

Wichtige Grammatik

Compound Nouns (熟語)

Noun + 証書 creates specific document types like 卒業証書.

Polite Verbs for Giving/Receiving

授与する (formal give), いただく (humble receive).

Noun Modification with relative clauses

私が持っている証書 (The certificate that I have).

Passive voice for official actions

証書が発行される (The certificate is issued).

Counters for flat objects (枚)

証書を三枚受け取った (I received three certificates).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

これは卒業証書です。

This is a graduation certificate.

Uses the simple 'A is B' structure (AはBです).

証書をもらいました。

I received the certificate.

Uses the object marker を and the past tense of 'receive'.

きれいな証書ですね。

It's a beautiful certificate, isn't it?

Uses the adjective きれい (beautiful) and the sentence-ending particle ね.

証書はここにあります。

The certificate is here.

Uses あります to indicate the existence of an inanimate object.

証書をなくさないでください。

Please do not lose the certificate.

Uses the negative request form 〜ないでください.

名前が書いてある証書です。

It is a certificate with a name written on it.

Uses a relative clause (名前が書いてある) to modify the noun.

先生から証書を受け取ります。

I receive the certificate from the teacher.

Uses から to indicate the source of the action.

大事な証書です。

It is an important certificate.

Uses the na-adjective 大事 (important).

保険証書をカバンに入れました。

I put the insurance policy in my bag.

Uses the compound noun 保険証書.

銀行の証書はどこにありますか？

Where is the bank certificate?

Uses the possessive の to link bank and certificate.

この証書を持ってきてください。

Please bring this certificate.

Uses the compound verb 持ってくる in the polite request form.

古い証書を捨てないでください。

Please don't throw away the old certificate.

Uses the adjective 古い (old).

証書のコピーを取ります。

I will make a copy of the certificate.

Uses コピーを取る (to make a copy).

それは本物の証書ですか？

Is that a real certificate?

Uses 本物 (genuine/real) as a noun modifier.

証書にハンコを押しました。

I stamped the certificate with my seal.

Uses the specific verb 押す (to press/stamp) for seals.

新しい証書が届きました。

A new certificate has arrived.

Uses the intransitive verb 届く (to arrive).

借用証書を書くのは初めてです。

It is my first time writing a promissory note.

Uses the nominalizer の to make 'writing' a subject.

証書の裏面に説明があります。

There is an explanation on the back of the certificate.

Uses 裏面 (back surface) to specify location.

その証書は法的に有効です。

That certificate is legally valid.

Uses the adverbial form 法的に (legally).

預金証書を紛失した場合はどうすればいいですか？

What should I do if I lose my certificate of deposit?

Uses the conditional form 〜場合は (in the case of).

証書の内容をよく確認してください。

Please confirm the contents of the certificate carefully.

Uses the adverb よく (well/carefully).

卒業証書を額に入れて飾っています。

I have framed my graduation certificate and displayed it.

Uses the 〜ている form to show a continuing state.

証書の発行には手数料がかかります。

There is a fee for issuing the certificate.

Uses かかる to indicate the cost of time or money.

これは寄付を証明する証書です。

This is a certificate that proves the donation.

Uses a verb phrase to modify the noun 証書.

公正証書を作成するために公証役場へ行った。

I went to the notary office to create a notarized deed.

Uses 〜ために to express purpose.

証書に不備があると、契約は無効になる可能性がある。

If there is a defect in the deed, the contract may become invalid.

Uses 可能性 (possibility) to express uncertainty.

この証書は、権利の譲渡を証明するものです。

This certificate is something that proves the transfer of rights.

Uses 〜ものだ to define the nature of the object.

保険証書の再発行をオンラインで申請した。

I applied for the re-issuance of the insurance policy online.

Uses the Sino-Japanese verb 申請する (to apply).

証書の原本を提出しなければならない。

The original certificate must be submitted.

Uses 原本 (original) and the 'must' form 〜なければならない.

彼はその証書を証拠として裁判所に提出した。

He submitted that certificate to the court as evidence.

Uses 〜として (as/in the capacity of).

証書の形式が法律で定められている。

The format of the certificate is determined by law.

Uses the passive voice 定められている.

有価証券は、証書の一種と言える。

Marketable securities can be said to be a type of certificate.

Uses 〜と言える (can be said that).

公正証書には執行力があるため、裁判を省略できる。

Because a notarized deed has executive power, a trial can be bypassed.

Uses the technical term 執行力 (executive power).

証書の偽造は、重大な犯罪行為とみなされる。

The forgery of a certificate is regarded as a serious criminal act.

Uses 〜とみなされる (is regarded/considered as).

遺言を公正証書にすることで、紛争を未然に防ぐ。

By making a will into a notarized deed, disputes are prevented before they occur.

Uses 未然に (beforehand/in advance).

証書の文言は、一言一句慎重に検討されるべきだ。

The wording of the deed should be examined carefully, word for word.

Uses 〜べきだ (should/ought to).

電子証書の普及により、紙の証書は減りつつある。

With the spread of electronic certificates, paper certificates are decreasing.

Uses 〜つつある to indicate an ongoing change.

その証書は、債務の存在を決定的に裏付けるものだ。

That certificate is something that decisively supports the existence of the debt.

Uses the adverb 決定的に (decisively).

証書の交付をもって、契約の成立とする。

The delivery of the certificate shall constitute the formation of the contract.

Uses 〜をもって (with/by means of) in a formal legal sense.

嘱託人が証書の内容を読み聞かせ、確認を行った。

The client read the contents of the deed aloud and performed a confirmation.

Uses the formal term 嘱託人 (client/person making the request).

証書の証拠力は、その作成過程の適法性に依存する。

The probative value of a deed depends on the legality of its creation process.

Uses highly technical legal vocabulary like 証拠力 and 適法性.

私署証書に公証人の認証を受けることで、信頼性が高まる。

By receiving a notary's authentication on a private deed, its reliability increases.

Uses the term 私署証書 (private deed) vs. 公正証書.

証書の滅失に伴う再交付手続きは、極めて煩雑である。

The re-issuance procedures accompanying the loss/destruction of a deed are extremely complicated.

Uses 滅失 (loss/destruction) and 煩雑 (complicated/tedious).

当該証書は、遡及的に効力を有すると解釈される。

The certificate in question is interpreted to have retroactive effect.

Uses 遡及的に (retroactively) and 解釈される (is interpreted).

証書の文言に齟齬がある場合、作成者の真意が問われる。

If there is a discrepancy in the wording of the deed, the creator's true intention is called into question.

Uses 齟齬 (discrepancy/mismatch) and 真意 (true intention).

確定日付のある証書は、第三者に対抗する要件となる。

A certificate with a fixed date becomes a requirement for asserting rights against third parties.

Uses the legal concept 対抗する (to assert/oppose) and 要件 (requirement).

証書の原本と謄本の不一致は、重大な過失となり得る。

An inconsistency between the original deed and the certified copy can constitute gross negligence.

Uses 謄本 (certified copy) and 過失 (negligence).

証書の電子化における真正性の確保が焦眉の急である。

Ensuring authenticity in the digitization of deeds is a matter of urgent priority.

Uses the idiom 焦眉の急 (urgent priority/pressing need).

Synonyme

証明書文書書類免許状契約書

Gegenteile

口約束口頭承諾

Häufige Kollokationen

卒業証書

公正証書

保険証書

借用証書

預金証書

証書授与

有価証券

証書の原本

証書の再発行

証書の偽造

Häufige Phrasen

証書を交わす

— To exchange formal documents/contracts. Used when two parties finalize an agreement.

両社は提携の証書を交わした。

証書に認める

— To write down or record something in a formal document. (认める here means 'to write' in a formal sense).

合意内容を証書に認めた。

証書を差し入れる

— To submit or provide a document to someone (often a superior or authority).

身元保証の証書を差し入れる。

証書を書き換える

— To rewrite or update a formal document.

古い借用証書を書き換えた。

証書を預ける

— To entrust a document to someone for safekeeping.

金庫に証書を預ける。

証書を提示する

— To present or show a certificate/deed.

窓口で保険証書を提示した。

証書を破る

— To tear up a document, often symbolizing the end of an agreement.

怒って証書を破り捨てた。

証書が届く

— For a certificate to arrive by mail.

合格証書が今日届いた。

証書を紛失する

— To lose a formal certificate.

大事な証書を紛失してしまった。

証書の写し

— A copy of a certificate/deed.

証書の写しを提出してください。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

証書 vs 証明書

General proof vs. the specific deed/instrument (証書).

証書 vs 証券

Financial tradeable value vs. a record of fact/right (証書).

証書 vs 証拠

The abstract concept of 'evidence' vs. the physical 'document' (証書).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"証書を盾にする"

— To use a formal document as a shield or leverage in an argument.

彼は証書を盾にして、支払いを拒んだ。

Neutral

"証書に泥を塗る"

— To bring disgrace upon a certificate or the achievement it represents.

不正行為で卒業証書に泥を塗った。

Informal/Metaphorical

"証書が泣く"

— When someone's actions are unworthy of the certificate they hold.

そんな態度では、立派な証書が泣くよ。

Informal

"証書を紙切れにする"

— To make a formal document worthless/useless.

会社が倒産し、証券はただの紙切れになった。

Neutral

"証書を錦の御旗にする"

— To use a document as an unquestionable authority to justify one's actions.

彼は古い証書を錦の御旗にして要求を通した。

Literary

"証書が物を言う"

— When the document itself is the most powerful evidence/argument.

結局、最後は証書が物を言う。

Neutral

"証書を質に入れる"

— To use a certificate (like a bond) as collateral at a pawn shop.

生活に困り、証書を質に入れた。

Old-fashioned

"証書を棒に振る"

— To waste or lose the benefits of a certificate through one's own fault.

不祥事で、苦労して得た証書を棒に振った。

Informal

"証書に墨を塗る"

— To invalidate or deface a document (historically by covering with ink).

過去の証書に墨を塗り、無かったことにした。

Literary

"証書を懐にする"

— To carry a document close to one's person, implying its extreme importance.

彼は大事な証書を懐にして旅に出た。

Literary

Leicht verwechselbar

証書 vs 聖書 (Seisho)

Similar phonetics.

Seisho is the Bible; Shōsho is a certificate. The 'o' sound is the key.

聖書を読む (Read the Bible) vs 証書を読む (Read the certificate).

証書 vs 秘書 (Hisho)

Ends in 'sho'.

Hisho is a secretary (a person); Shōsho is a document.

秘書に頼む (Ask the secretary) vs 証書を頼む (Request a certificate).

証書 vs 少々 (Shoushou)

Same sounds (shō-shō).

Shoushou means 'a little bit' or 'just a moment'.

少々お待ちください (Please wait a moment) vs 証書をお持ちください (Please bring the certificate).

証書 vs 症状 (Shōjō)

Similar sounds.

Shōjō refers to medical symptoms.

風邪の症状 (Symptoms of a cold) vs 卒業の証書 (Graduation certificate).

証書 vs 賞状 (Shōjō)

Similar sounds and meaning.

Shōjō is an award/commendation; Shōsho is a formal certificate of completion or legal deed.

優勝の賞状 (Award for winning) vs 卒業証書 (Graduation certificate).

Satzmuster

これは[Noun]の証書です。

これは卒業の証書です。

[Noun]証書を[Verb]ます。

保険証書をなくしました。

[Verb-Plain]ための証書です。

お金を借りるための証書です。

[Noun]証書を発行してもらう。

預金証書を発行してもらう。

証書の内容に基づき、[Action]。

証書の内容に基づき、支払いを請求する。

証書の真正性が[Verb-Passive]。

証書の真正性が疑われている。

証書を[Noun]として提出する。

証書を証拠として提出する。

証書に[Noun]がある。

証書に名前がある。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

証明 (Proof)

証言 (Testimony)

証拠 (Evidence)

保証 (Guarantee)

書面 (Written document)

Verben

証する (To prove/testify)

書き留める (To write down/record)

書き記す (To chronicle/record)

Adjektive

証拠的な (Evidentiary)

Verwandt

公証人 (Notary public)

原本 (Original document)

写し (Copy)

印鑑 (Personal seal)

契約 (Contract)

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frequency

High in legal, financial, and educational administration; low in daily conversation.

Häufige Fehler

Using 証書 for an ID card. → 身分証明書 (Mibun shōmeisho)
An ID card is a general proof of identity, not a deed or diploma. Use 証明書 instead.
Saying 'Shosho' with short vowels. → Shōshō (しょうしょ)
Short vowels change the word to 'slightly' or 'just a bit.' Long vowels are required for 'certificate.'
Using 証書 for a meeting report. → 報告書 (Hōkokusho)
A report summarizes events; a 証書 proves a legal fact or right. They are different categories of documents.
Writing 証証 instead of 証書. → 証書
The second kanji must be 'sho' (writing/document), not 'shō' (proof).
Calling a receipt a 証書. → 領収書 (Ryōshūsho)
While both are documents, a receipt has its own specific name in Japanese. 証書 is too formal for a simple purchase record.

Tipps

Always use with 'Sotsugyō'

If you are a student, the most useful phrase is 卒業証書. Practice saying '卒業証書をもらいました' until it feels natural, as this is a core life-event sentence in Japanese culture.

Compound Nouns

Japanese loves compounding nouns. Instead of saying 'a certificate for insurance,' just say 'Insurance-Certificate' (保険証書). This is the most efficient way to use the word.

Two-Hand Rule

In Japan, when you receive a 証書, always reach out with both hands. This shows respect for the document and the person giving it. It is a vital part of the ceremony.

Notarization

If you ever move to Japan and sign a major contract, ask if it should be a 公正証書. It provides much better protection than a regular contract (契約書) if the other party doesn't pay.

Distinguish from Shōmeisho

Remember: Shōsho is the 'Original Deed/Diploma.' Shōmeisho is the 'Proof-Document' (like an ID or transcript). This distinction will make you sound very advanced.

Long Vowels

Focus on the long 'o' in both syllables. 'Shoo-shoo' (しょうしょ). If you say it too fast, it might sound like 'slightly' (少々), which would be confusing in a legal setting!

Safe Keeping

In Japan, people often keep their 証書 in a fireproof safe or a very specific 'important papers' box. The word 証書 implies something that should be archived, not carried around daily.

Kanji Practice

Practice writing the kanji 証. It appears in many useful words like 証拠 (evidence) and 証明 (proof). Mastering this kanji is a gateway to legal and professional Japanese.

Be Formal

Don't use 証書 for a pizza coupon or a club flyer. It’s too heavy. Using it for trivial things sounds like a joke or a mistake. Stick to 書類 for general stuff.

Historical Weight

Think of 証書 as a 'scroll' from ancient times. Even though it's modern paper now, it still carries that ancient sense of an 'official decree' or 'royal record.'

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'SHOW' (shō) where someone 'SHOWS' (sho) a paper to prove they graduated. It's a double-show of proof!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a student in a black gown holding a rolled-up paper with a big red stamp. The stamp is the 'shō' (proof) and the paper is the 'sho' (document).

Word Web

卒業証書 (Diploma) 保険証書 (Insurance policy) 公正証書 (Notarized deed) 借用証書 (IOU) 預金証書 (Bank cert) 証券 (Security) 証明書 (Certificate) 証拠 (Evidence)

Herausforderung

Try to find three different 'shōsho' in your own life (e.g., your degree, an insurance paper, a loan agreement) and label them in Japanese.

Wortherkunft

The word 証書 originates from Classical Chinese. The character 証 (zhèng in Chinese) originally referred to a witness or testimony in a legal context. The character 書 (shū in Chinese) referred to the act of writing or the resulting text. The combination has been used in Japanese legal and administrative systems for centuries to denote formal records of proof.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A written testimony or a document that serves as proof.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Kultureller Kontext

Always handle a 証書 with two hands in formal situations. Never fold or crumple a 証書 in front of the person who gave it to you.

In English, we often use different words like 'diploma,' 'policy,' 'deed,' or 'certificate.' Japanese simplifies this by using 証書 as a common suffix for all these formal instruments.

Japanese Graduation Songs (often mention the 証書) Legal dramas like 'Hero' or '99.9 Criminal Lawyer' Historical documents from the Meiji Restoration

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Graduation

卒業証書授与
証書を受け取る
証書を筒に入れる
立派な証書

Insurance

保険証書の発行
証書の内容確認
証書をなくした
証書の郵送

Banking

預金証書を作る
証書の書き換え
証書を提示する
証書の満期

Legal/Notary

公正証書の作成
証書に署名捺印
証書の正本
証書を証拠にする

Borrowing Money

借用証書を書く
証書の返却
証書を破棄する
証書の有効性

Gesprächseinstiege

"卒業証書はまだ持っていますか？ (Do you still have your graduation certificate?)"

"保険証書をどこに置いたか忘れてしまいました。 (I forgot where I put my insurance policy.)"

"公正証書を作ったことがありますか？ (Have you ever created a notarized deed?)"

"この証書、再発行できるでしょうか？ (I wonder if this certificate can be re-issued?)"

"証書の内容が難しくてわかりません。 (The contents of the certificate are difficult and I don't understand them.)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

今日、卒業証書を受け取った時の気持ちを書いてください。 (Write about how you felt when you received your graduation certificate today.)

もし大事な証書をなくしてしまったら、どうしますか？ (What would you do if you lost an important certificate?)

あなたが持っている一番古い証書は何ですか？ (What is the oldest certificate you own?)

証書とデジタルデータのどちらが信頼できると思いますか？ (Which do you think is more reliable, a physical certificate or digital data?)

将来、どんな証書（学位や資格）が欲しいですか？ (What kind of certificate/degree/qualification do you want in the future?)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

卒業証書 (Sotsugyō Shōsho) is the actual diploma you receive at the ceremony—the ornate one you hang on the wall. 卒業証明書 (Sotsugyō Shōmeisho) is an official transcript or document issued by the school later to prove to employers or other schools that you graduated. You usually need the 'Shōmeisho' for paperwork, not the original 'Shōsho'.

No, a birth certificate is usually called 出生証明書 (Shussei Shōmeisho). While it proves a fact, it is categorized as a 'Shōmeisho' because it reports a record from the government registry rather than being a deed or diploma.

Since it is a flat, thin object, you use the counter 枚 (mai). For example: 証書が一枚 (isshōsho ga ichimai - one certificate).

Yes, it is becoming common to see 電子証書 (denshi shōsho) or 'e-certificates.' The word still applies because the legal nature of the 'instrument' remains the same, even if the medium changes from paper to data.

In Japan, a 卒業証書 is generally never re-issued. If you lose it, you are out of luck for the original. However, you can always request a 卒業証明書 (certificate of graduation) from your school, which serves the same legal purpose for job hunting.

Yes, it is very formal. You would use it in business, law, and official ceremonies. In casual conversation, you might just refer to the specific document name (like 'the diploma') or use a more general word like 'papers' (書類).

A 公正証書 (Kōsei Shōsho) is a notarized deed. It is a document prepared by a notary public that has high legal reliability. It is often used for wills, loan agreements, and divorce settlements to ensure that the terms can be enforced by law without a trial.

The kanji 証 means proof or evidence. It is used because the document's primary purpose is to provide physical evidence that a certain event (like graduation) or agreement (like a loan) occurred.

It is 証書. The second kanji is 書 (writing/document), not 証. This is a common mistake for beginners. Remember: Proof (証) + Writing (書).

No, a receipt is called 領収書 (Ryōshūsho). While it also ends in 'sho' (document), it has its own specific term. 証書 is reserved for more 'heavy' or 'permanent' documents.

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