承認する
It means to say 'yes' to something, or to notice and accept that something is real or true.
Explanation at your level:
Hello! Today we're learning a word that means 'to say yes' or 'to see something is okay.' Imagine you ask your mom if you can have a cookie. If she says 'yes,' she approves! Or, if you draw a picture, and she looks at it and says 'Wow, nice drawing!', she is acknowledging your work. 承認する (shōnin suru) is the Japanese word for this. It's like giving a thumbs up! You might hear it when someone asks for permission and gets a 'yes'. It's a happy word that means something is good to go!
Let's talk about 承認する (shōnin suru). This verb is used when someone officially agrees to something or accepts that something is true. Think about when your teacher gives permission for you to go to the restroom – they approve your request. Or, when you finish a project and your boss says, 'Good job, I recognize your effort.' That's also 承認する. It’s a bit more formal than just saying 'okay.' You might use it when asking if a plan is accepted, like, 'Is the plan approved?' It’s a useful word for showing agreement or acceptance.
承認する (shōnin suru) is a key verb for expressing formal agreement or acknowledgment. It's used in situations where official consent is given, like approving a budget, a proposal, or a request. For instance, a manager might approve a vacation request. It also extends to recognizing facts or achievements. You could say, 'The committee acknowledged the importance of the research.' It implies a level of validation or acceptance, often from someone in a position of authority. Common phrases include 承認を得る (shōnin o eru) - to gain approval, and 承認する権利 (shōnin suru kenri) - the right to approve. Understanding this verb helps navigate more formal Japanese communication.
The verb 承認する (shōnin suru) signifies more than simple agreement; it denotes formal acceptance, sanction, or validation. In business and legal contexts, it's crucial for processes like approving contracts (契約を承認する - keiyaku o shōnin suru) or granting official recognition. It can also imply acknowledging the validity or truth of something, such as 事実を承認する (jijitsu o shōnin suru) - to acknowledge a fact. The nuance lies in the authority or standing of the person doing the approving. It's often used when something moves from a proposal stage to an official, accepted status. Consider collocations like 承認プロセス (shōnin purosesu) - approval process, or 承認待ち (shōnin machi) - awaiting approval, which highlight its role in structured systems.
承認する (shōnin suru) carries significant weight, especially in academic, governmental, and corporate discourse. It signifies the act of granting official sanction or validating a claim, theory, or status. For example, scientific findings might require peer review and subsequent 承認 (shōnin) by a journal's editorial board. In international relations, a treaty needs to be 承認する (shōnin suru) by the participating nations. It can also refer to the psychological act of acknowledging another's existence or perspective, though other verbs might be more common for this nuance. The verb implies a deliberate decision based on established criteria or authority. Understanding its usage is key to deciphering formal Japanese texts and communications, differentiating it from more casual forms of agreement.
Mastering 承認する (shōnin suru) involves appreciating its deep roots in concepts of legitimacy, authority, and formal acceptance. Historically, the kanji 承 (shō) and 認 (nin) have been fundamental in establishing legal and social order, signifying the granting of rights, the validation of status, or the official acceptance of decrees. In contemporary usage, shōnin suru can range from the mundane act of approving an expense report to the profound act of a nation 承認する (shōnin suru) another's sovereignty. Its etymological connection to 'bearing' (承) and 'recognizing' (認) suggests a process of taking on responsibility for the acknowledged item or person. Advanced learners will note its presence in specialized fields, such as philosophy (acknowledging a truth) or law (sanctioning a judgment). The verb encapsulates a formal, often hierarchical, process of validation that is central to many societal structures.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Means 'to approve', 'to acknowledge', or 'to recognize'.
- Often used in formal, business, or official contexts.
- Key verb for giving official consent or validation.
- Related to concepts of authority, decision-making, and acceptance.
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese verb 承認する (shōnin suru). Think of it as the Japanese way of saying 'to approve,' 'to acknowledge,' or 'to recognize.' It's a word you'll bump into quite a bit, whether you're dealing with official documents, everyday conversations, or even just understanding how things work in Japan. It carries a sense of giving the green light, accepting something as valid, or simply noticing and validating something or someone. Isn't it cool how one word can cover so many shades of meaning? We'll explore how it fits into different situations, making your Japanese understanding that much richer!
At its core, 承認する involves a positive reception. This could be a formal approval, like a boss signing off on a project, or a more personal acknowledgment, like recognizing a friend's effort. The context is key to understanding which flavor of 'approving' or 'acknowledging' is being used. It’s more than just a simple 'yes’; it often implies a level of authority, understanding, or validation. So, get ready to unlock the many faces of 承認する!
The word 承認する (shōnin suru) is a compound verb, formed by the noun 承認 (shōnin) and the auxiliary verb する (suru), which means 'to do.' The noun shōnin itself comes from Chinese characters (kanji). The first character, 承 (shō), means 'to inherit,' 'to bear,' 'to succeed,' or 'to approve.' The second character, 認 (nin), means 'to recognize,' 'to admit,' 'to approve,' or 'to acknowledge.' Together, 承認 (shōnin) literally means something like 'to bear recognition' or 'to approve by acknowledging.'
Historically, these characters were adopted into Japanese from Chinese, bringing with them a rich semantic history. The concept of formal approval and acknowledgment has been crucial in governance, law, and social structures for centuries, and shōnin reflects this. The verb form, shōnin suru, became the standard way to express the action of approving or acknowledging. Think about how legal systems and bureaucratic processes rely heavily on formal recognition – this verb is central to that! It’s fascinating to see how ancient linguistic roots continue to shape modern communication, especially in a culture that values clear assent and recognition.
So, when do we whip out 承認する (shōnin suru)? It's super versatile! You'll often see it in more formal settings, like business or legal contexts. For example, a company might 承認する (shōnin suru) a new budget, or a government might 承認する (shōnin suru) a treaty. It implies a formal, often official, agreement or acceptance.
You can also use it to acknowledge someone's achievements. Imagine a teacher saying they 承認する (shōnin suru) a student's excellent performance. It means they recognize and approve of the effort. In everyday chat, you might hear it used to confirm understanding or acceptance of a plan. For instance, 'Did the boss 承認する (shōnin suru) the proposal?' is a common question. Common word combos include 承認プロセス (shōnin purosesu) - approval process, 承認待ち (shōnin machi) - awaiting approval, and 承認印 (shōnin in) - approval stamp. Remember, while it can be used in slightly less formal ways, it generally carries a weightier feel than a simple 'okay!'
While 承認する (shōnin suru) itself isn't typically part of many colorful idioms, the concept of recognition and approval is woven into Japanese expressions. Think about phrases that convey acceptance or validation, even if they don't use the exact verb.
Here are some related ideas and expressions:
- 認められる (mitomerareru): This is the passive form of mitomeru (to recognize, admit, approve) and often means 'to be recognized' or 'to be acknowledged.' For example, 彼の才能は広く認められている (Kare no sainō wa hiroku mitomerarete iru) - 'His talent is widely recognized.'
- 承知いたしました (shōchi itashimashita): A very polite way to say 'I understand' or 'Acknowledged.' Often used in customer service or formal business settings. It shows you've received and understood the information.
- お墨付き (osumi-tsuki): This literally means 'ink-stick seal' and refers to official endorsement or guarantee, often from someone of high status. It's like getting a stamp of approval. For example, これは大臣のお墨付きを得たプロジェクトだ (Kore wa daijin no osumi-tsuki o eta purojekuto da) - 'This is a project that has received the minister's official endorsement.'
- 一目置く (hitome oku): This means to acknowledge someone's superiority or skill and treat them with respect. You 'place one look' of deference. For example, あの選手には一目置いている (Ano senshu ni wa hitome oite iru) - 'I acknowledge the skill of that player.'
- 了解 (ryōkai): Similar to shōchi, meaning 'understood' or 'roger that.' Commonly used in communication, especially in military or business contexts, to confirm receipt of information.
These phrases, while not always using 承認する directly, highlight the cultural importance of acknowledgment, validation, and formal acceptance in Japanese society.
Let's break down the grammar and sound of 承認する (shōnin suru)! As a verb ending in suru, it belongs to a group of verbs that are very common and easy to conjugate. You can think of shōnin as the 'noun part' and suru as the 'doing part.' This makes it super flexible!
Conjugation: You conjugate the suru part. For example:
- Present polite: 承認します (shōnin shimasu)
- Past polite: 承認しました (shōnin shimashita)
- Negative polite: 承認しません (shōnin shimasen)
- Te-form (for connecting clauses): 承認して (shōnin shite)
- Potential form (can approve): 承認できる (shōnin dekiru)
- Volitional form (let's approve): 承認しよう (shōnin shiyō)
Pronunciation:
- IPA (Japanese): /ɕo̞ːnintend͡ʑit͡ɕi/
- Breakdown: sho-h-nin su-ru. The 'shō' has a long 'o' sound. The 'nin' is a standard 'n' sound followed by 'i'. 'Su' is like the 'sue' in 'suede,' and 'ru' is a light flap, almost like a soft 'd' or 'l' sound, especially between vowels.
- British English approximation: SHOH-nin SOO-roo
- American English approximation: SHOH-nin SOO-roo
- Stress: Generally, the emphasis is fairly even, perhaps slightly more on the first syllable 'shō'.
- Rhyming words: While direct rhymes are tricky due to the structure, words ending in '-suru' will share the final sound, like kōryō suru (to consider) or henshin suru (to transform).
- Common pronunciation errors: Learners might over-emphasize the 'r' in 'ru', making it too strong, or pronounce 'shō' too short.
Fun Fact
The character 承 (shō) is composed of Hand (又) and the character of a vessel or container (卬), suggesting the idea of 'receiving' or 'bearing' something within.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'SHOH-nin SOO-roo', with the 'SHOH' part drawn out slightly and the 'roo' having a soft 'r' sound.
Similar to UK, 'SHOH-nin SOO-roo', with emphasis on the first syllable of 'shōnin' and a light 'r' in 'suru'.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'shō' as a short 'o' sound.
- Making the 'r' in 'suru' too strong, like in English 'run'.
- Adding an unnecessary vowel sound after 'n' in 'nin'.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Requires understanding formal contexts and kanji.
Conjugation is easy, but choosing the right context is key.
Pronunciation needs care; context is crucial.
Often heard in formal announcements or business settings.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
する-verbs Conjugation
承認する -> 承認します (polite)
Passive Voice (~される)
計画が承認される (The plan is approved)
Noun + の + Noun
承認印 (Approval stamp)
Noun + 待ち
承認待ち (Awaiting approval)
Examples by Level
先生は私の絵を承認しました。
teacher / my / picture / acknowledge (past) / did
Past tense of suru verb: shita
これはいいですか？
this / good / is it?
Basic question structure
はい、承認します。
yes / approve / do
Present tense of suru verb: shimasu
お母さん、行ってもいい？
mom / go / even if / okay?
Asking for permission
犬がお昼寝しています。
dog / afternoon sleep / is doing
Verb ending in -te iru for ongoing action
新しいおもちゃを承認してください。
new / toy / please approve
Request form: ~te kudasai
この計画は大丈夫です。
this / plan / okay / is
Describing something as okay
あなたのアイデアは良いです。
your / idea / good / is
Expressing approval of an idea
部長は新しいプロジェクトを承認しました。
department manager / new / project / approve (past)
Object marker 'o' (を)
会議でその提案が承認される予定です。
meeting / at / that / proposal / be approved / is scheduled
Passive voice: ~reru
彼の努力を認めます。
his / effort / acknowledge
Using 認める (mitomeru) for acknowledge
この書類には承認印が必要です。
this / document / approval stamp / is necessary
Noun + 'ga hitsuyō desu' (is necessary)
申請はまだ承認待ちです。
application / still / approval waiting
Noun + 'machi' (waiting for)
上司の承認を得てから、進めてください。
boss / approval / gain / after, / please proceed
Clause connection: ~te kara (after doing)
その計画は多くの人に承認されました。
that / plan / many / people / by / was approved
Passive voice: ~sareta
あなたの意見を承認します。
your / opinion / approve
Direct object usage
会社は新しいマーケティング戦略を承認しました。
company / new / marketing strategy / approve (past)
Standard verb conjugation in past tense
この変更には、さらに承認が必要です。
this / change / for, / further / approval / is necessary
Noun + 'ga hitsuyō desu' (is necessary)
彼の功績は広く承認されている。
his / achievements / widely / is recognized
Present progressive passive: ~te iru (passive form)
予算案が最終的に承認された。
budget proposal / finally / was approved
Passive voice in past tense: ~sareta
承認プロセスを簡略化する必要があります。
approval process / simplify / need to do
Verb + 'hitsuyō ga aru' (need to)
その提案は会議で承認される見込みです。
that / proposal / meeting / at / be approved / is expected
Potential passive: ~reru (potential form of passive)
彼の長年の貢献を承認したいと思います。
his / many years' / contribution / acknowledge / want to do
Verb + 'to omoimasu' (want to do)
このソフトウェアは多くのユーザーに承認されています。
this / software / many / users / by / is approved
Passive voice indicating widespread acceptance
理事会は、提案された買収計画を正式に承認した。
board of directors / proposed / acquisition plan / officially / approved
Formal verb usage, adverb 'seishiki ni' (officially)
彼の研究結果は、国際的な学術界で広く承認されている。
his / research findings / international / academic community / by / widely / are recognized
Passive voice indicating widespread acceptance in a specific field
この新薬の承認プロセスは非常に厳格だ。
this / new drug / approval process / very / strict
Noun phrase: 'shōnin purosesu' (approval process)
政府は、その開発プロジェクトに対する融資を承認することを決定した。
government / that / development project / for / loan / approve / to do / decided
Verb + 'koto o kimeru' (decide to do)
長年の議論を経て、ついにその法律が承認された。
many years' / discussion / through / finally / that / law / was approved
Passive voice in past tense, indicating a final outcome
彼の貢献は、組織内で高く承認されている。
his / contribution / organization / within / highly / is recognized
Adverb 'takaku' (highly) modifying the recognition
我々は、この技術革新を承認し、投資する準備ができている。
we / this / technological innovation / approve / and / invest / ready / are
Connecting verbs with 'shi' (te-form of suru)
その芸術作品は、批評家たちによって承認された。
that / art piece / critics / by / was approved
Passive voice indicating critical acclaim
当該研究は、倫理委員会の厳格な審査を経て承認された。
the research in question / ethics committee / strict review / through / was approved
Formal vocabulary ('tōgai kenkyū', 'rinri iinkai', 'gengaku na shinsa')
国際社会は、その平和的解決策を承認する姿勢を見せている。
international community / that / peaceful solution / acknowledge / stance / is showing
Abstract noun usage ('heiwa-teki kaiketsusaku', 'shisei')
彼の理論的貢献は、学術界において広く承認されるに至った。
his / theoretical contributions / academic world / in / widely / came to be recognized
Formal phrasing ('ni itaru' - came to be')
この度は、貴社のご提案を承認させていただきたく存じます。
this time / your company / proposal / approve / humbly wish to do / think
Humble language ('sasete itadakitaku zonjimasu')
承認された基準に準拠していない場合、プロジェクトは却下される。
approved / standards / conform to / if not / project / rejected / will be
Conditional clause ('~nai baai'), passive voice ('kyakka sareru')
長年の功績が認められ、彼は名誉博士号を授与された。
many years' / achievements / recognized / he / honorary doctorate / awarded
Using 認められ (passive of 認める) and 授与された (awarded)
我々は、この歴史的合意の承認に向けて全力を尽くす。
we / this / historic agreement / approval / towards / all efforts / will exert
Formal commitment ('zenryoku o tsukusu')
その芸術家の独創性は、国際的に承認されるべきである。
that / artist's / originality / internationally / should be recognized
Modal verb expressing obligation ('beki de aru')
当該条約は、批准国による最終的な承認を経て発効する。
the treaty in question / ratifying countries / by / final / approval / through / will take effect
Legal/diplomatic terminology ('jōyaku', 'hijun koku', 'hatsukō')
彼の哲学における実存主義的貢献は、後世の学者たちによって承認されることとなった。
his / philosophy / in / existentialist contributions / later generations / scholars / by / came to be recognized
Literary/academic phrasing ('kōsei no gakusha', 'ni yotte shōnin sareru koto to natta')
その改革案は、国民の広範な支持を得て、議会によって承認された。
that / reform proposal / national / broad / support / gained / parliament / by / was approved
Complex sentence structure, formal vocabulary ('kōhan na shiji', 'gikai')
我々は、この歴史的転換点における彼の役割を承認せずにはいられない。
we / this / historic turning point / in / his role / acknowledge / without / cannot help
Idiomatic expression ('~zu ni wa irarenai' - cannot help but do)
この芸術作品の革新性は、当時の保守的な批評界からは容易に承認されなかった。
this / art piece / originality / the then / conservative / critical circles / from / easily / was not approved
Nuanced negative passive, historical context ('hoshu-teki na hihyōkai')
その発見は、科学界の権威によって承認されることで、確固たるものとなった。
that / discovery / scientific world / authorities / by / being approved / solid / became
Causal relationship ('~koto de'), formal phrasing ('kakko taru mono to natta')
承認のプロセスは、しばしば政治的駆け引きと密接に関連している。
approval / process / often / political maneuvering / and / closely / related / is
Abstract concepts ('seiji-teki kakehiki', 'missetsu ni kanren suru')
彼は、自身の経験を通して、他者の苦悩を承認することの重要性を学んだ。
he / his / experiences / through / others' / suffering / acknowledge / importance / learned
Emphasizing empathy and deep understanding ('ninō suru koto no jūyōsei')
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"お墨付きを得る (osumi-tsuki o eru)"
To gain official endorsement or guarantee, often from a high-status person or authority.
この商品は、有名なシェフのお墨付きを得て販売されている。(Kono shōhin wa, yūmei na shefu no osumi-tsuki o ete hanbai sarete iru.) - This product is sold with the endorsement of a famous chef.
formal"一目置く (hitome oku)"
To acknowledge someone's superiority or skill and treat them with respect; to defer to someone.
彼はベテランなので、皆が一目置いている。(Kare wa beteran na node, minna ga hitome oite iru.) - He is a veteran, so everyone acknowledges his skill.
neutral"太鼓判を押す (taiko-ban o osu)"
To give a strong guarantee or assurance; to wholeheartedly approve or vouch for something.
このレストランは絶対に美味しいと太鼓判を押せるよ！(Kono resutoran wa zettai ni oishii to taiko-ban o oseru yo!) - I can guarantee with absolute certainty that this restaurant is delicious!
casual/neutral"黙認する (mokunin suru)"
To tacitly approve or tolerate something without explicit consent or objection; to turn a blind eye.
不正行為を黙認することはできない。(Fusei kōi o mokunin suru koto wa dekinai.) - We cannot tacitly approve of fraudulent behavior.
formal"右から左へ (migi kara hidari e)"
Often used with '承認' (approval) to mean 'approved very quickly' or 'passed through without delay.'
彼の申請は右から左へ承認された。(Kare no shinsei wa migi kara hidari e shōnin sareta.) - His application was approved almost immediately.
neutral"お眼鏡にかなう (omegane ni kanau)"
To meet someone's expectations or standards; to be approved by someone whose approval is valued.
このデザインは、社長のお眼鏡にかなったようだ。(Kono dezain wa, shachō no omegane ni kanatta yō da.) - It seems this design met the president's approval.
formal/neutralEasily Confused
Both relate to giving permission or agreement.
許可する specifically means 'to permit' or 'to allow' (like letting someone enter or do something). 承認する is broader, meaning 'to approve' or 'acknowledge' plans, documents, or achievements.
部屋に入る許可を得ました。(I got permission to enter the room.) vs. 計画が承認されました。(The plan was approved.)
Both can mean 'to recognize' or 'approve'.
承認する is more formal and official, often implying a decision or validation by authority. 認める is more general; it can mean to notice, admit, or approve less formally.
彼の才能を承認する。(Acknowledge/Approve his talent - formal) vs. 彼の才能を認める。(Recognize/Admit his talent - general)
All imply some form of acceptance.
容認する means to tolerate or accept something, often something negative or undesirable, without necessarily approving of it. It's like 'turning a blind eye' or 'letting it slide'.
不正を容認しない。(I will not tolerate dishonesty.) vs. 計画を承認する。(I approve the plan.)
Both mean to accept or agree.
承諾する specifically refers to accepting an offer, proposal, or request. It's about consenting to something put forward by someone else.
依頼を承諾しました。(I accepted the request.) vs. 計画を承認しました。(I approved the plan.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + 承認する
会社は新しい方針を承認した。(Kaisha wa atarashii hōshin o shōnin shita.) - The company approved the new policy.
Noun + の + 承認 + を + 得る/求める
このプロジェクトを進めるには、上司の承認を得る必要があります。(Kono purojekuto o susumeru ni wa, jōshi no shōnin o eru hitsuyō ga arimasu.) - To proceed with this project, it is necessary to obtain the boss's approval.
Noun + が + 承認される
あなたの申請が承認されました。(Anata no shinsei ga shōnin saremashita.) - Your application has been approved.
Noun + は + 承認 + 待ち + です
現在のステータスは承認待ちです。(Genzai no sutētasu wa shōnin machi desu.) - The current status is awaiting approval.
Noun + の + 承認者
承認者のサインを忘れないでください。(Shōnin sha no sain o wasurenaide kudasai.) - Please do not forget the approver's signature.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
承認する has a more formal or official connotation. Using it for simple 'okay' can sound stiff or overly serious.
承認する is about acceptance/validation, while 許可する is about allowing/permitting.
While passive is common, active voice (承認する) is clearer when stating who approved what.
The long vowel mark (ー) indicates a lengthened sound, crucial for correct pronunciation.
承認する implies a deeper level of approval or validation, not just confirmation of receipt.
Tips
Visualize the Stamp!
Imagine a big, official red stamp that says '承認' (shōnin). When you think of the word, picture that stamp being applied to a document, signifying official approval.
Think 'Official Green Light'
When you're unsure, ask yourself: 'Is this an official green light for a plan, document, or achievement?' If yes, 承認する is likely appropriate. If it's just a casual 'yes', maybe use something else.
Respect Authority
The act of 承認する often implies a hierarchy or authority. Recognizing this context helps understand why the word carries weight in Japanese society.
The Power of する Verbs
Remember that 承認する is a する verb. This means its conjugation follows the easy pattern of する (suru), shimasu, shita, shinai, etc. This makes it very flexible!
Long 'O' is Key
Pay attention to the long 'ō' sound in 'shōnin'. It's different from a short 'o'. Practice saying 'shō-nin' clearly.
Avoid Casual Overuse
Don't use 承認する for simple 'okay's. It's like using 'sanction' when you just mean 'fine' in English – it sounds too formal and out of place.
Kanji Clues
The kanji 承 (shō) means 'to bear' or 'receive', and 認 (nin) means 'to recognize'. So, 承認 literally means something like 'to bear recognition' – a nice image for approval!
Contextual Flashcards
When making flashcards, don't just put the word and definition. Add a sample sentence showing *how* it's used in context (e.g., 'The boss approved the report').
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'SHOW' (shō) of 'Ninjas' (nin) giving 'SURU' (suru - 'thumbs up' sound) to a plan they approve!
Visual Association
Picture a formal document with a large, official stamp that says 'APPROVED' in Japanese characters.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 承認する in a sentence about getting permission for something you want to do this week.
Word Origin
Chinese (Sino-Japanese)
Original meaning: 承 (shō) - to bear, succeed, approve; 認 (nin) - to recognize, admit, approve. Combined meaning: to bear recognition, to approve by acknowledging.
Cultural Context
Using 承認する implies a level of authority or formal process. Be mindful of the context; using it in very casual situations might seem out of place.
In English-speaking cultures, 'approval' often implies a formal sign-off, while 'acknowledgment' can be simpler recognition. 承認する covers both, but leans towards the formal side.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At Work / Business Meetings
- 部長の承認を得る必要があります。(Buchō no shōnin o eru hitsuyō ga arimasu.) - Need to get the department manager's approval.
- この提案を承認します。(Kono teian o shōnin shimasu.) - I approve this proposal.
- 承認プロセスについて説明してください。(Shōnin purosesu ni tsuite setsumei shite kudasai.) - Please explain the approval process.
Official Documents / Forms
- 承認印を押してください。(Shōnin in o oshite kudasai.) - Please affix the approval stamp.
- 申請は承認待ちです。(Shinsei wa shōnin machi desu.) - The application is awaiting approval.
- 承認済みリスト (Shōnin zumi risuto) - Approved list
Government / Legal
- 条約が承認された。(Jōyaku ga shōnin sareta.) - The treaty was approved/ratified.
- 法律が承認される。(Hōritsu ga shōnin sareru.) - The law is approved.
- 承認を求める (Shōnin o motomeru) - To seek approval
Academic / Research
- 研究結果が承認された。(Kenkyū kekka ga shōnin sareta.) - The research results were recognized/approved.
- 倫理委員会の承認 (Rinri iinkai no shōnin) - Ethics committee approval
Conversation Starters
"Is there anything you need to get approval for this week?"
"What's the longest approval process you've ever experienced?"
"How do you feel when something you worked hard on is finally approved?"
"Can you think of a time when approval was denied? How did that feel?"
"What's the difference between approval and just being allowed to do something?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a situation where you had to seek approval for something important. What was the process like?
Write about a time your efforts were officially recognized or approved. How did it impact you?
Imagine you are in charge of approving projects. What criteria would you use?
Reflect on the importance of acknowledgment in relationships. How does it differ from formal approval?
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions承認する is generally more formal and implies official approval or validation, often by an authority. 認める is broader and can mean to notice, admit, or approve in a less official capacity.
It's usually too formal for very casual requests. For simple permission, words like いい (ii - good/okay) or 大丈夫 (daijōbu - okay/alright) are more common.
While it *can* mean acknowledge, it's more often used for approving things or recognizing achievements. For acknowledging someone's existence or feelings, other verbs might be more suitable depending on the nuance.
'承認待ち' (shōnin machi) means 'awaiting approval'. It's commonly seen on applications or forms indicating that the process is ongoing.
In a polite context, you'd say 承認します (shōnin shimasu). If you want to be more humble, you might use 承認させていただきます (shōnin sasete itadakimasu).
In some contexts, especially internal company documents or forms, you might see abbreviations, but '承認' itself is quite standard. Perhaps just the stamp '承認印' is the most common visual shorthand.
Common antonyms include 拒否する (kyohi suru - to reject) and 却下する (kyakka suru - to dismiss/reject).
It's not typically used for self-approval in the sense of 'I approve of myself'. It usually implies approval given by one entity to another or to a plan/document.
Test Yourself
先生は私の宿題を ______ ました。
The teacher acknowledged/approved the homework.
Which word means 'to permit' or 'to give permission'?
許可する specifically means to permit.
承認する (shōnin suru) can be used for both official approvals and simple 'okay's in casual conversation.
承認する is generally more formal than a simple 'okay'. Use other words for casual agreement.
Word
Meaning
Matching the verb, its state, and a related noun.
The sentence should be: 会社は計画を承認した。(The company approved the plan.)
この新しい薬は、厳しい審査を経て ______ されました。
The new drug was approved after strict review. 'Shōnin' fits the context of formal approval after review.
Which phrase best translates 'to gain approval'?
承認を得る specifically means to obtain or gain approval.
The verb 承認する (shōnin suru) is primarily used in informal, spoken Japanese.
承認する is more commonly used in formal, written, or business contexts.
彼の長年の功績は、学界で広く ______ されている。
His long-standing achievements are widely recognized (approved/acknowledged) in academia. 承認 is the best fit for formal recognition of achievements.
Tests understanding of the compound noun and passive voice.
Score: /10
Summary
承認する is your go-to verb for when something gets the official 'thumbs up' in Japanese!
- Means 'to approve', 'to acknowledge', or 'to recognize'.
- Often used in formal, business, or official contexts.
- Key verb for giving official consent or validation.
- Related to concepts of authority, decision-making, and acceptance.
Visualize the Stamp!
Imagine a big, official red stamp that says '承認' (shōnin). When you think of the word, picture that stamp being applied to a document, signifying official approval.
Think 'Official Green Light'
When you're unsure, ask yourself: 'Is this an official green light for a plan, document, or achievement?' If yes, 承認する is likely appropriate. If it's just a casual 'yes', maybe use something else.
Respect Authority
The act of 承認する often implies a hierarchy or authority. Recognizing this context helps understand why the word carries weight in Japanese society.
The Power of する Verbs
Remember that 承認する is a する verb. This means its conjugation follows the easy pattern of する (suru), shimasu, shita, shinai, etc. This makes it very flexible!
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
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遅めに
B1Late or later than usual.
経理
B1Accounting, accounts department; managing financial records.
的確な
B1Accurate; precise; exactly correct.
達成する
B1To achieve; to accomplish a goal.
活性化
B2To make something more active, lively, or effective. It is used for communities (revitalization), economies (stimulation), and biological processes (activation).
付加
B2To add or attach something extra to an existing thing to increase its value or function.
優位性
B2The state of being in a superior or more advantageous position compared to others; an edge or competitive advantage.
有利
A2Advantageous, favorable; beneficial in a situation.
有利に
B1Advantageously; favorably.
宣伝する
B1To promote; to publicize; to advertise.
