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B1 noun #8,000 le plus courant 9 min de lecture

免状

Top 8,000

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 免状 en 30 secondes

Explication 免状 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '免状' (menjō) often, but it is helpful to know it means a 'special paper' you get when you finish a class or pass a test. Think of it like a 'gold star' or a 'diploma' for adults. In Japan, when people study things like tea ceremony or martial arts, they get this paper to show they are good at it. You can remember it as 'Men' (permission) and 'Jo' (letter). It is a very formal word. If you see it, just think: 'This person has a certificate for a skill.'

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For A2 learners, '免状' (menjō) is a noun that describes a formal certificate. You might see this word in stories about people who practice Japanese traditions like 'Sado' (tea ceremony). It is different from 'menkyo' (license) because 'menjō' is the actual piece of paper you hold in your hand. For example, if you pass a big exam for a job, you might receive a 'menjō'. You can use the phrase 'Menjō wo morau' (to receive a certificate). It shows that you have reached a certain level of skill that others recognize.

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As a B1 learner, you should recognize '免状' (menjō) as a formal term for a qualification certificate. It is commonly used in professional and traditional contexts. Unlike the more general 'shōmeisho' (proof/certificate), 'menjō' implies a specific rank or a legal qualification. You will encounter this word when discussing national qualifications (kokka shikaku) like those for electricians or radio operators. It is also the standard term for certificates in traditional arts. You should be able to use it with verbs like 'sazuqueru' (to grant) or 'shutoku suru' (to obtain).

At the B2 level, you should understand the cultural and historical weight of '免状' (menjō). It often refers to the physical manifestation of a 'menkyo' (license). In the 'Iemoto' system of traditional Japanese arts, the 'menjō' is a crucial document that allows a student to advance to the next level of study or to start teaching their own students. You should be able to distinguish 'menjō' from 'ninteishō' (certification) and 'sotsugyō shōshō' (graduation diploma). In technical fields, 'menjō' is the legal document issued by a ministry, such as the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications for radio licenses.

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For C1 learners, '免状' (menjō) represents the formal institutionalization of skill and authority. You should understand its use in legal statutes regarding professional qualifications and its historical evolution from the 'denju' (transmission) systems of the Edo period. In modern discourse, 'menjō' is used in the context of 'shikaku shakai' (a qualification-based society), where the possession of specific certificates is essential for career advancement. You should be comfortable discussing the nuances of certificate revocation (torikeshi) or the administrative procedures for re-issuance (saikōfu) using formal vocabulary.

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At the C2 level, you can analyze the socio-cultural implications of the 'menjō' system in Japan. This includes the 'Iemoto' system's economic structure, where the granting of 'menjō' serves as a primary source of income for the head of the school. You should be able to discuss how 'menjō' functions as 'symbolic capital' in Bourdieu's sense, providing the holder with social status and professional legitimacy. Furthermore, you can compare the Japanese 'menjō' tradition with Western guild certifications or university accreditation systems, noting the unique emphasis on lineage and personal transmission from master to disciple in the Japanese context.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

免状 en 30 secondes

A formal certificate or diploma proving a qualification or rank.
Commonly used in traditional arts (tea, flowers) and technical fields (radio, electricity).
Represents the physical document rather than the abstract concept of a license.
Associated with verbs like 'sazuqueru' (grant) and 'shutoku suru' (obtain).

The Japanese word 免状 (menjō) is a formal noun that refers to an official certificate, diploma, or license that confirms a person's qualifications, skills, or completion of a specific course of study. While it shares some semantic territory with words like menkyo (license) or shōshō (certificate), menjō carries a specific nuance of traditional authority and formal recognition. Historically, this term was deeply rooted in the guild systems and traditional arts of Japan, such as the tea ceremony (sadō), flower arrangement (kadō), or various schools of martial arts (budō). When a student reached a certain level of mastery, the master would grant them a menjō, often in the form of a hand-brushed scroll, authorizing them to either practice at that level or teach others.

Etymological Nuance: The first character '免' (men) means to excuse, dismiss, or permit, while '状' (jō) refers to a letter, form, or state of affairs. Together, they signify a 'letter of permission' or an 'exemption from amateur status.'

In modern Japanese, menjō is still used in these traditional contexts, but it has also expanded to include professional certifications and government-issued diplomas. For example, a certified electrician or a high-level radio operator might refer to their physical certificate as a menjō. It is a word that commands respect; it is not just a 'piece of paper' but a physical manifestation of years of dedication and the formal approval of a governing body. Unlike sotsugyō shōshō (graduation diploma), which is specific to finishing a school, a menjō focuses on the specific skill or legal right granted to the holder.

長年の修行の末、ようやく茶道の免状をいただいた。
(After many years of training, I finally received my tea ceremony certificate.)

When using this word, it is important to understand the 'gravity' it holds. You wouldn't use menjō for a simple participation certificate from a one-day workshop. It is reserved for milestones that change one's status. In professional fields, it often refers to the legal document that allows one to perform technical tasks. For instance, in the field of wireless communications, the physical card you carry is the menjō. If you lose it, you have to apply for a 're-issuance' (saikōfu), a process often involving significant paperwork.

Common Contexts: Traditional arts (tea, flowers, calligraphy), martial arts (black belt certifications), and specialized technical national exams (radio, electricity, boilers).

電気工事士の免状を提示してください。
(Please present your electrician's license certificate.)

In summary, menjō is a bridge between Japan's feudal past and its technical present. It represents the formalization of knowledge. Whether it is a beautiful scroll stored in a paulownia wood box or a plastic card in a technician's wallet, it serves as the ultimate proof of expertise. Understanding the word requires recognizing the cultural value placed on 'form' (kata) and the hierarchical structure of traditional Japanese learning systems, where the granting of a certificate is a sacred rite of passage between teacher and disciple.

Using 免状 (menjō) correctly requires a grasp of specific verbs that typically accompany it. Because a menjō is an object of value, the verbs used are often formal. The most common actions associated with it are 'receiving' (itadaku/ukeru), 'granting' (sazuqueru/ataeru), and 'acquiring' (shutoku suru). Because it is a formal noun, it is rarely found in highly casual slang, though it is common in everyday professional and educational conversation.

Verb Pairing: Sazuqueru (授ける): This verb is used when a master or an institution bestows the certificate upon a student. It implies a vertical relationship where knowledge and authority are being passed down.

家元から直々に免状を授けられた。
(I was personally granted a certificate by the head of the school.)

When discussing the process of getting the certificate through an exam, the verb shutoku suru (to acquire/obtain) is the standard choice. This is used for technical licenses like those for amateur radio or specialized engineering. In these cases, the menjō is the physical proof that you have passed the national examination and are now registered with the relevant ministry.

無線従事者の免状を取得するために、毎日三時間勉強している。
(I am studying three hours every day to obtain my radio operator's certificate.)

Another important grammatical pattern involves the word teishi (suspension) or torikeshi (revocation). If someone violates the rules of their profession or the traditions of their school, their menjō can be taken away. This highlights the fact that the certificate represents a conditional right granted by an authority.

The Passive Form: Often, people use the passive voice (sazuquerareta) to show humility and respect toward the teacher who gave them the certificate.

彼はその流派で最高位の免状を持っている。
(He holds the highest-ranking certificate in that school of martial arts.)

In business settings, you might hear menjō mentioned during audits or safety inspections. 'Menjō no teiji' (presentation of certificates) is a common phrase where workers must show their credentials to prove they are legally allowed to operate machinery or handle hazardous materials. In this context, it is synonymous with 'credential verification.'

The word 免状 (menjō) is most frequently heard in three specific environments: traditional Japanese cultural classrooms, technical vocational settings, and formal ceremonies. While you might not hear it at a grocery store or in a casual chat about movies, it is a staple of 'Keigo' (polite Japanese) in professional and artistic circles.

Scenario 1: The Traditional Dojo or Classroom: In the world of Tea Ceremony (Sado) or Flower Arrangement (Ikebana), the word is ubiquitous. When a student progresses to a new 'dan' or level, the teacher will announce that they are ready for their next menjō. This is a significant social event within the school.

「先生、ようやく初伝の免状を申請できるようになりました。」
('Teacher, I am finally able to apply for my first-level certificate.')

Scenario 2 involves the government and technical industries. Japan has a rigorous system of national qualifications (kokka shikaku). For many of these, the physical document issued by the ministry is called a menjō. You will hear this in job interviews when an employer asks, 'Do you have the physical certificate (menjō) or just the test results?' This is because the menjō is the legal instrument required for employment in specialized fields.

Scenario 3: Official Announcements: During graduation ceremonies or award ceremonies for vocational schools, the MC will use the term menjō juyo (awarding of certificates) to describe the part of the program where students come to the stage.

「続きまして、調理師免状の授与を行います。」
('Next, we will proceed with the awarding of the chef's licenses.')

Interestingly, you might also see this word in historical dramas (Jidaigeki). A samurai might be shown a menjō from a sword-fighting school to prove his lineage or skill level. This historical usage is why the word still carries a sense of 'lineage' and 'tradition' today. If you are learning a traditional craft in Japan, hearing the word menjō is a sign that you are being taken seriously as a practitioner.

For English speakers learning Japanese, the most common mistake is confusing 免状 (menjō) with 免許 (menkyo). While they are related, they are not interchangeable. Menkyo refers to the abstract 'license' or 'permission' granted by the state or an authority (like a driver's license), whereas menjō is specifically the physical certificate or diploma that proves you have that license.

Mistake 1: The 'Driver's License' Error: Never call a driver's license a 'unten menjō.' It is always 'unten menkyo' or 'unten menkyo-shō.' Using menjō here sounds archaic or simply incorrect.

❌ 運転の免状を忘れました。
✅ 運転免許証を忘れました。
(I forgot my driver's license.)

Another mistake involves confusing menjō with shōmeisho (certificate/proof). A shōmeisho is a general term for any document that proves a fact (like a birth certificate or a certificate of residence). A menjō is specifically for qualifications and ranks. You wouldn't call a bank statement a menjō, even if it is an official document.

Mistake 2: Overusing it for Modern Schooling: While a university diploma can technically be referred to in some contexts as a type of certificate, the standard term is 'sotsugyō shōshō' or 'shaku-ki' (degree). Using menjō for a high school diploma might sound a bit old-fashioned or overly dramatic.

Finally, watch out for the kanji. The character '免' (men) is also used in 'menzei' (tax-free) and 'men-eki' (immunity). Beginners sometimes confuse it with 'ben' (convenience/study) because of the similar top part, but they are distinct. Ensure you are not confusing 'menjō' (certificate) with 'benkyō' (study) in writing, though they sound very different.

To truly master 免状 (menjō), you should understand how it compares to its synonyms. Each word has a specific 'flavor' and context. Choosing the right one shows a high level of Japanese proficiency.

免状 (Menjō) vs. 免許証 (Menkyo-shō): Menjō: Focuses on the physical document confirming qualification/rank, often in traditional or technical fields.
Menkyo-shō: Specifically refers to a license card issued by the state (driving, medical, etc.).
免状 (Menjō) vs. 認定証 (Nintei-shō): Menjō: More traditional and implies a permanent rank or legal qualification.
Nintei-shō: Often used for private certifications, language proficiency (like JLPT), or specialized skills recognized by a specific organization.
免状 (Menjō) vs. 卒業証書 (Sotsugyō Shōshō): Menjō: Focuses on the 'right' or 'rank' gained.
Sotsugyō Shōshō: Focuses solely on the act of completing an educational curriculum at a school.

「彼はJLPTのN1認定証を持っているが、書道の免状も持っている。」
('He has a JLPT N1 certificate and also holds a calligraphy certificate.')

In martial arts, you might also encounter the term dan-i shō (rank certificate). While menjō is the general term for the paper, dan-i shō specifically specifies that the paper represents a 'black belt' rank. In traditional schools (Koryu), the term densho (transmission scroll) is sometimes used interchangeably with menjō, but densho implies that secret techniques are written inside, whereas a menjō is primarily a public-facing proof of rank.

Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate Japanese bureaucracy and social structures. For example, if you are applying for a job as a chef, you would mention your chōrishimenkyō (chef license), but the physical paper you show them is your menjō. If you are a hobbyist in Japanese archery (Kyūdō), you will proudly display your menjō on the wall of your home. Each word places you in a specific cultural sphere.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

In the Edo period, a 'menjō' was often a scroll several meters long. If you were a martial arts master, your 'menjō' would list your entire lineage back to the founder of the school to prove your legitimacy.

Guide de prononciation

UK /men.dʒoʊ/

US /mɛn.dʒoʊ/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'menjō', the pitch usually starts low on 'me' and rises on 'n', staying high for 'jo' and 'u'.

Rime avec

Kanjō (emotion) Tenjō (ceiling) Senjō (battlefield) Genjō (current status) Hōjō (abundant) Rinjō (attendance) Shinjō (creed) Enjō (flaming/social media blowup)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'jo' as a short sound (men-jo instead of men-jō).
Confusing the 'n' sound with a vowel sound.
Stress-accenting the first syllable like English 'MEN-jo'.
Pronouncing 'me' like 'may'.
Failing to sustain the long 'o' sound at the end.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The kanji are standard but '免' can be confused with other similar characters.

Écriture 4/5

Writing '状' correctly requires attention to stroke order.

Expression orale 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward as long as the long vowel is maintained.

Écoute 3/5

Can be confused with 'menkyo' or 'menzei' in fast speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

免許資格証明書類合格

Apprends ensuite

授与交付申請修了認定

Avancé

家元皆伝許状奥義継承

Grammaire à connaître

Honorific/Humble Verbs

師匠から免状をいただきました。

Passive for Bestowal

免状が授与された。

Compound Nouns

無線従事者免状。

Counters for Flat Objects (-mai)

免状を二枚持っている。

Adverbial 'ni' with formal verbs

速やかに免状を提示する。

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Exemples par niveau

これは私の免状です。

This is my certificate.

Simple A is B structure.

免状をもらいました。

I received a certificate.

Verb 'morau' (to receive) indicates a gift or earned item.

きれいな免状ですね。

It is a beautiful certificate, isn't it?

Adjective 'kirei' (beautiful) used with 'ne' for agreement.

免状はどこですか。

Where is the certificate?

Interrogative 'doko' (where).

箱の中に免状があります。

There is a certificate inside the box.

Existence verb 'arimasu' for inanimate objects.

父の免状を見ました。

I saw my father's certificate.

Possessive particle 'no'.

これは空手の免状です。

This is a karate certificate.

Specifying the type of certificate.

免状をください。

Please give me the certificate.

Request form 'kudasai'.

お茶の免状をいただきました。

I received a tea ceremony certificate (humbly).

Humble verb 'itadaku' used for receiving from a superior.

彼は新しい免状を見せてくれました。

He showed me his new certificate.

Benefactive construction '-te kureru'.

免状を取るのは大変でした。

Obtaining the certificate was difficult.

Nominalizing a verb with 'no'.

この免状は本物ですか。

Is this certificate authentic?

Adjective 'honmono' (real/authentic).

壁に免状が掛けてあります。

The certificate is hanging on the wall.

Resultative state '-te aru'.

試験に合格して、免状をもらった。

I passed the exam and got the certificate.

Connecting clauses with the 'te-form'.

免状をなくさないでください。

Please do not lose the certificate.

Negative request '-nai de kudasai'.

いつ免状が届きますか。

When will the certificate arrive?

Question word 'itsu' (when).

電気工事士の免状を取得しました。

I obtained an electrician's certificate.

Formal verb 'shutoku suru' (to acquire).

免状を提示するように求められた。

I was asked to present my certificate.

Passive voice 'motomerareta' (was requested).

この流派では、免状が三段階あります。

In this school, there are three levels of certificates.

Counter 'dankai' (levels/stages).

免状の再交付には手数料がかかります。

Re-issuance of the certificate requires a fee.

Compound noun 'saikōfu' (re-issuance).

ようやく師匠から免状を授けられた。

Finally, I was granted a certificate by my master.

Honorific verb 'sazuqueru' in passive form.

免状を持っていないと、この仕事はできません。

You cannot do this job without a certificate.

Conditional '-te inai to'.

彼は多くの免状を壁に飾っている。

He has many certificates displayed on the wall.

Verb 'kazaru' (to decorate/display).

免状の申請には写真が必要です。

A photo is required for the certificate application.

Noun 'shinsei' (application).

無線従事者の免状を紛失した場合は、速やかに届け出てください。

If you lose your radio operator's certificate, please report it promptly.

Formal conditional 'baai wa' and adverb 'sokusayaka ni'.

家元制度において、免状の授与は重要な儀式である。

In the Iemoto system, the awarding of certificates is an important ritual.

Abstract noun 'seido' (system) and 'gishiki' (ritual).

偽造された免状が見つかり、警察が捜査している。

A forged certificate was found, and the police are investigating.

Relative clause 'gizou sareta' (forged).

免状の有効期限を確認しておく必要がある。

It is necessary to check the expiration date of the certificate.

Compound noun 'yūkō kigen' (expiration date).

彼は書道の免状を取得し、教室を開く権利を得た。

He obtained a calligraphy certificate and gained the right to open a classroom.

Connecting two complete thoughts with 'shi' or 'te'.

免状に記載されている氏名が間違っています。

The name written on the certificate is incorrect.

Passive participle 'kisai sarete iru' (is recorded/written).

この免状は、全国どこでも有効です。

This certificate is valid anywhere in the country.

Adjective 'yūkō' (valid).

免状の交付には、通常一ヶ月ほどかかります。

Issuance of the certificate usually takes about one month.

Noun 'kōfu' (issuance).

免状の効力は、法改正によって変更される可能性がある。

The validity of the certificate may be changed due to legal amendments.

Complex noun 'kōryoku' (effect/validity) and 'hō-kaisei' (law reform).

不正な手段で免状を取得したことが発覚し、資格が取り消された。

It was discovered that the certificate was obtained by illicit means, and the qualification was revoked.

Causal link leading to 'torikeshi' (revocation).

免状の有無が、採用選考における決定的な要因となった。

The possession of a certificate became the decisive factor in the hiring selection.

Noun phrase 'umu' (presence or absence).

伝統芸能の免状は、単なる技術の証明以上の社会的地位を付与する。

Certificates in traditional arts bestow social status beyond a mere proof of skill.

Verb 'fuyo suru' (to bestow/grant).

免状を掲示することは、顧客に対する信頼の証である。

Displaying one's certificate is a testament of trust to the customers.

Nominalized phrase as a subject.

国家試験に合格しても、免状を申請しなければ資格は有効にならない。

Even if you pass the national exam, the qualification is not valid unless you apply for the certificate.

Concessive 'temo' and conditional 'nakereba'.

免状の形式は、時代とともに巻物からカードへと変化してきた。

The format of certificates has changed over time from scrolls to cards.

Historical progression 'henka shite kita'.

専門的な知識を要する業務には、特定の免状の保持が義務付けられている。

For tasks requiring specialized knowledge, holding a specific certificate is mandatory.

Verb 'gimu-zukerareite iru' (is made mandatory).

家元が発行する免状の権威は、その流派の歴史的背景に深く依存している。

The authority of certificates issued by the head of a school depends deeply on the school's historical background.

Highly abstract vocabulary like 'ken'i' (authority) and 'izon' (dependence).

免状の授与は、師弟間の知識の継承という密儀的な側面を内包している。

The awarding of a certificate encompasses the esoteric aspect of the transmission of knowledge between master and disciple.

Academic terms 'keishō' (inheritance) and 'naihō' (connotation/inclusion).

近代化の過程で、免状は個人的な師弟関係の証から、公的な資格制度へと変質を遂げた。

In the process of modernization, certificates transformed from proof of a personal master-disciple relationship into a public qualification system.

Complex historical analysis structure.

免状の不当な売買は、伝統文化の質的劣化を招く恐れがある。

The illicit sale of certificates risks leading to the qualitative degradation of traditional culture.

Abstract concepts 'fudō' (unjust) and 'rekka' (degradation).

職能団体が発行する免状は、その専門職の自律性と専門性を担保するものである。

Certificates issued by professional organizations guarantee the autonomy and expertise of that profession.

Formal verb 'tanpo suru' (to guarantee/secure).

免状の文言には、その流派独自の哲学や教義が反映されていることが多い。

The wording of a certificate often reflects the unique philosophy and doctrines of that school.

Noun 'mongon' (wording) and 'kyōgi' (doctrine).

グローバル化に伴い、国内の免状を国際的な基準に適合させる動きが見られる。

With globalization, there is a movement to align domestic certificates with international standards.

Grammar 'ni tomonai' (along with).

免状取得という目標は、学習者にとっての強力な動機付けとして機能する一方で、目的の形骸化も懸念される。

While the goal of obtaining a certificate functions as a strong motivator for learners, there are concerns about the goal becoming a mere formality.

Contrastive structure 'ippō de' (on the other hand) and 'keigaika' (becoming a shell).

Collocations courantes

免状を授与する

免状を取得する

免状を提示する

免状を紛失する

免状の再交付

免状を交付する

免状を飾る

免状の種類

免状の書き換え

免状を手にする

Phrases Courantes

免状持ち

— A person who holds a specific certificate or license. Often used in blue-collar jobs.

彼は免状持ちのベテランだ。

看板と免状

— A phrase referring to the visible signs of authority and the actual proof of skill.

看板と免状だけ立派でも、中身がなければ意味がない。

免状を汚す

— To do something shameful that dishonors the certificate or the school that gave it.

不祥事を起こして免状を汚してはならない。

紙の免状

— Sometimes used dismissively to mean a person has the paper but not the actual skill.

紙の免状だけでは現場では通用しない。

免状の重み

— The responsibility or prestige that comes with holding a certificate.

免状の重みを噛みしめる。

一生の免状

— A qualification that is valid for life or a skill that will always support you.

この資格は一生の免状になる。

免状の格

— The rank or prestige of a specific certificate.

免状の格によって、指導できる範囲が決まる。

免状申請中

— The status of having passed the test but waiting for the document.

現在は免状申請中のため、実務はできません。

免状の偽造

— The act of forging a certificate.

免状の偽造は重大な犯罪です。

免状の原本

— The original physical certificate (as opposed to a copy).

免状の原本を確認させてください。

Souvent confondu avec

免状 vs 免許

Menkyo is the permission/license itself; Menjō is the paper document.

免状 vs 証書

Shōsho is a general certificate; Menjō is specific to qualifications.

免状 vs 認定

Nintei is the act of certification; Menjō is the resulting document.

Expressions idiomatiques

"免状を授かる"

— To be blessed with a certificate, often implying a spiritual or deep connection to the teacher.

長年の献身により、ついに免状を授かった。

Formal

"免状に恥じない"

— To live up to the standard expected of someone holding that certificate.

免状に恥じない行動を心がける。

Moral

"免状を水に流す"

— Not a standard idiom, but used in contexts where a qualification is rendered useless by a major change.

制度が変わり、古い免状を水に流すことになった。

Metaphorical

"免状を盾にする"

— To use one's formal qualification to deflect criticism or avoid hard work.

免状を盾にして、新しいことを学ぼうとしない。

Critical

"免状が泣く"

— Said when someone with a high qualification performs poorly.

そんな初歩的なミスをするとは、免状が泣くぞ。

Casual/Critical

"免状を懐に入れる"

— To have a qualification 'in one's pocket' as a backup plan.

いざという時のために、免状を懐に入れておく。

Metaphorical

"免状を鼻にかける"

— To be boastful about one's certificates.

彼は免状を鼻にかけて威張っている。

Informal

"免状が歩く"

— Describing someone who is all theory and qualifications but lacks practical humanity or common sense.

彼はまるで免状が歩いているような男だ。

Literary

"免状を形見にする"

— To keep a certificate as a memento of a deceased teacher or parent.

祖父の免状を形見として大切にしている。

Sentimental

"免状で飯を食う"

— To make a living using one's professional certification.

この免状一本で飯を食ってきた。

Colloquial

Facile à confondre

免状 vs 免除 (menjo)

Similar sounds.

Menjo means 'exemption' (e.g., from fees), whereas Menjō means 'certificate'.

授業料の免除を受ける。

免状 vs 免許証 (menkyoshō)

Related meaning.

Menkyoshō is usually a government-issued ID card; Menjō can be a traditional scroll.

運転免許証を更新する。

免状 vs 卒業証書 (sotsugyō shōshō)

Both are diplomas.

Sotsugyō shōshō is only for graduating schools; Menjō is for skills and ranks.

大学の卒業証書。

免状 vs 許可証 (kyokashō)

Both give permission.

Kyokashō is a permit for a specific action (like parking); Menjō is for a person's status.

駐車許可証。

免状 vs 鑑定書 (kanteisho)

Both are official papers.

Kanteisho is an appraisal for an object (like a diamond); Menjō is for a person's skill.

宝石の鑑定書。

Structures de phrases

[N]の免状をもらう

空手の免状をもらう。

[N]の免状を取得する

調理師の免状を取得する。

[N]に免状を提示する

警察官に免状を提示する。

[Person]から免状を授けられる

家元から免状を授けられる。

免状を[Place]に飾る

免状を床の間に飾る。

免状の効力が[V-form]

免状の効力が停止された。

免状の有無を[V-form]

免状の有無を確認する。

免状という形式が[V-form]

免状という形式が形骸化している。

Famille de mots

Noms

免許 (License)

状 (Letter/State)

免除 (Exemption)

免職 (Dismissal)

Verbes

免ずる (To excuse/appoint)

免れる (To escape/avoid)

Adjectifs

免税の (Tax-free)

Apparenté

資格 (Qualification)

認定 (Certification)

授与 (Awarding)

取得 (Acquisition)

交付 (Issuance)

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in specialized niches (arts, technical trades), rare in general daily conversation.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'menjō' for a driver's license. → unten menkyo-shō
Driver's licenses are always 'menkyo', never 'menjō'.
Saying 'menjō wo benkyō suru'. → menjō no tame ni benkyō suru
You don't study a certificate; you study *for* a certificate.
Confusing 'menjō' (certificate) with 'menjo' (exemption). → Check the long 'o' sound.
Short 'o' means being excused from something; long 'o' is the paper.
Using 'menjō' for a receipt. → ryōshūsho
A receipt is proof of payment, not proof of qualification.
Pronouncing it as 'men-zho'. → men-jō
The 'j' is a clear 'dzh' sound, and the 'o' must be long.

Astuces

Pair with Formal Verbs

Try to use 'shutoku' (obtain) or 'sazuqueru' (grant) instead of just 'morau' (get) to sound more professional.

Respect the Scroll

If you receive a traditional scroll 'menjō', handle it with both hands. It is considered a sacred object in Japanese culture.

Differentiate from Menkyo

Remember: Menkyo = The License (Abstract); Menjō = The Certificate (Physical).

JLPT Context

While not a common JLPT N3/N2 vocabulary word, it often appears in reading passages about traditional culture or technical careers.

Job Interviews

If a job requires a license, mention your 'menjō' to show you have the actual physical proof ready.

Kanji Practice

The '状' character appears in many useful words like 'jōtai' (condition) and 'shōtaijō' (invitation). Master it now!

Showing Off

In Japan, it is okay to display your 'menjō' in your office or dojo, but don't brag about them too much in conversation.

Ceremony Audio

Listen for the word 'juyo' (awarding) right after 'menjō' in graduation or award videos online.

Letter of Permission

Think of 'Men' as 'Permission' and 'Jo' as 'Letter'. It's your Permission Letter!

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'MEN' (person) who is given a 'JO' (job) because they have a special paper. 'Men-jo' is the paper that gets the 'men' the 'jo'.

Association visuelle

Imagine a traditional Japanese scroll with a bright red seal (hanko) on it. That physical object is the 'menjō'.

Word Web

Certificate Diploma License Scroll Qualification Teacher Exam Authority

Défi

Try to find three different types of 'menjō' online (e.g., a radio license, a tea ceremony scroll, and a shogi rank certificate) and compare how they look.

Origine du mot

The word comes from Middle Chinese roots. '免' (men) originally depicted a person removing a hat or crown, symbolizing being 'freed' from a burden or duty. '状' (jō) originally meant the shape or form of something, later evolving to mean a document describing a state of affairs.

Sens originel : A document that permits or excuses someone, specifically giving them the 'form' of authority.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Contexte culturel

Be respectful when discussing 'menjō' in traditional arts, as they often involve high fees and deep personal relationships between teacher and student.

In English, we often use 'license' and 'certificate' interchangeably, but in Japanese, 'menjō' specifically highlights the physical document of a qualification.

The 'Menkyo Kaiden' (license of total transmission) in martial arts movies. Professional Shogi players receiving their 'menjō' from the Nihon Shogi Renmei. The 'Chōrishimenjō' (Chef's License) often seen framed in authentic Japanese restaurants.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Traditional Arts Class

免状をいただく
免状の申請
お家元からの免状
免状料

Technical Job Site

免状の提示
免状の確認
有効な免状
免状携帯の義務

Government Office

免状の再交付
免状の書き換え
免状の発送
免状番号

Martial Arts Dojo

初段の免状
免状を授与する
免状の重み
免状の格

Hobbyist Group (Go/Shogi)

免状を申請する
免状の署名
記念の免状
免状の授与式

Amorces de conversation

"何か特別な免状を持っていますか？ (Do you hold any special certificates?)"

"日本の伝統文化の免状に興味がありますか？ (Are you interested in certificates for traditional Japanese culture?)"

"免状を取得するのに、どのくらい時間がかかりましたか？ (How long did it take you to obtain your certificate?)"

"免状を紛失したことはありますか？ (Have you ever lost a certificate?)"

"免状を壁に飾る習慣はありますか？ (Do you have a habit of displaying certificates on your wall?)"

Sujets d'écriture

もし、どんな免状でも一つもらえるとしたら、何が欲しいですか？その理由も書いてください。 (If you could receive any one certificate, what would it be? Write the reason as well.)

免状という言葉から連想するイメージを説明してください。 (Explain the image you associate with the word 'menjō'.)

あなたが今までで一番苦労して手に入れた免状や資格は何ですか？ (What is the certificate or qualification you worked the hardest to get?)

免状（紙の証明書）は、これからのデジタル時代に必要だと思いますか？ (Do you think physical certificates are necessary in the coming digital age?)

自分の国と日本の免状の仕組みの違いについて考えてみましょう。 (Think about the differences between your country's and Japan's certification systems.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, you should use 'unten menkyo' or 'unten menkyoshō'. 'Menjō' sounds very strange for a driver's license because it implies a level of traditional mastery or a specific technical certificate that a common driver's license doesn't have.

Yes, 'menjō' is a formal noun. It is appropriate for use in business, ceremonies, and traditional settings. It is rarely used in very casual slang.

You say '免状を紛失しました' (Menjō wo funshitsu shimashita) in formal contexts, or '免状をなくしました' (Menjō wo nakushimashita) in neutral contexts.

Since it is a flat object, the counter is '-mai'. For example, '免状を二枚持っています' (I have two certificates).

Technically, it can be called a 'menjō' in a broad sense, but the specific and more common term is 'sotsugyō shōshō' (graduation certificate) or 'shakui-ki' (degree certificate).

In martial arts, the 'menjō' represents the master's formal recognition of the student's rank. It is part of the 'denju' (transmission) tradition.

It means 're-issuance'. If you lose your certificate or it gets damaged, you apply for a 'saikōfu'.

No, the JLPT issues a 'ninteishō' (certificate of certification). 'Menjō' is more common for vocational licenses like being a chef or an electrician.

Grammatically yes, but culturally this is considered very dishonorable and illegal in professional contexts.

No. Traditional arts still use scrolls, but modern government certifications usually look like plastic ID cards or printed paper certificates.

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