At the A1 level, the word mitsumori (見積もり) is introduced as a basic noun meaning 'estimate' or 'quote'. Beginners should focus on recognizing this word when making large purchases or requesting services in Japan. At this stage, you do not need to understand complex business terminology, but you should know how to ask for an estimate politely. The most important phrase to memorize is 'Mitsumori o onegaishimasu' (見積もりをお願いします), which means 'Please give me an estimate'. You might use this when talking to a moving company, a mechanic, or a contractor. It is a simple, polite, and universally understood way to ask for the price before committing to a service. Another useful phrase is 'Mitsumori wa ikura desu ka?' (見積もりはいくらですか?), meaning 'How much is the estimate?'. Understanding that a mitsumori is a standard part of Japanese consumer culture will help you avoid unexpected costs. Even at a basic level, knowing this word empowers you to navigate daily life in Japan more confidently, ensuring you always know the expected price before agreeing to anything. Practice listening for this word in stores and service centers.
At the A2 level, learners expand their use of mitsumori by combining it with basic verbs to describe actions related to estimates. You should learn the phrases 'mitsumori o toru' (見積もりを取る), meaning 'to get an estimate', and 'mitsumori o dasu' (見積もりを出す), meaning 'to provide an estimate'. Understanding the difference between these two is crucial: you 'toru' an estimate from a company, while the company 'dasu' the estimate to you. You can also start using the word in simple sentences to express your intentions, such as 'Ashita, hikkoshi no mitsumori o torimasu' (明日、引っ越しの見積もりを取ります - Tomorrow, I will get an estimate for moving). Additionally, you should learn the word 'mitsumori-sho' (見積書), which refers specifically to the written document. Asking for a 'mitsumori-sho' ensures you get a formal, written quote rather than just a verbal price. At this level, you can also start expressing opinions about the estimate, such as 'Mitsumori ga takai desu' (見積もりが高いです - The estimate is expensive). This allows for basic negotiation and clearer communication regarding your budget and expectations.
At the B1 level, mitsumori becomes a vital tool for business communication and more complex daily life situations. Learners should be comfortable using the term in emails and formal conversations. You will encounter the concept of 'aimitsumori' (相見積もり), which means getting multiple quotes from different vendors to compare prices. This is a standard business practice in Japan. You should be able to say phrases like 'Aimitsumori o totte mo ii desu ka?' (相見積もりを取ってもいいですか? - Is it okay if I get competing quotes?). Furthermore, you should learn more formal verbs associated with estimates, such as 'sakusei suru' (作成する - to create/prepare) and 'irai suru' (依頼する - to request). In a business email, you might write 'Mitsumorisho no sakusei o onegai itashimasu' (見積書の作成をお願いいたします - Please prepare a written estimate). At this level, you should also be able to read a basic mitsumori-sho, understanding terms like 'shoukei' (小計 - subtotal) and 'zeikomi' (税込 - tax included). Mastery at the B1 level means you can handle the entire process of requesting, receiving, and comparing estimates independently.
At the B2 level, the focus shifts to the nuances of negotiating and discussing the details within a mitsumori. You should be able to articulate specific questions about the estimate, such as 'Kono koutei wa mitsumori ni fukumarete imasu ka?' (この工程は見積もりに含まれていますか? - Is this process included in the estimate?). You will also need to discuss budgets in relation to the estimate: 'Mitsumori ga yosan o oobaa shite imasu' (見積もりが予算をオーバーしています - The estimate exceeds the budget). At this stage, you should understand that a mitsumori is often a starting point for negotiation in B2B contexts. You must be able to politely request revisions, using phrases like 'Mou sukoshi yasuku narimasen ka?' (もう少し安くなりませんか? - Could you make it a little cheaper?) while referencing specific line items in the mitsumorisho. Additionally, you should be familiar with related terms like 'gaisan' (概算 - rough estimate) and know when to ask for a gaisan versus a formal mitsumori. Fluency at this level allows you to actively participate in corporate procurement, project planning, and vendor management without language barriers.
At the C1 level, learners must handle mitsumori in highly formal, high-stakes corporate environments using advanced Keigo (honorific language). You are expected to draft complex emails and lead meetings where estimates are analyzed and debated. Vocabulary expands to include terms like 'kousuu' (工数 - man-hours), 'genka' (原価 - cost price), and 'rieki-ritsu' (利益率 - profit margin) which are integral to calculating a mitsumori. You should be able to express complex conditions, such as 'Jouken ga henkou ni natta tame, mitsumori no saiteishutsu o motomemasu' (条件が変更になったため、見積もりの再提出を求めます - Because the conditions have changed, we request a resubmission of the estimate). Furthermore, you must understand the legal and contractual implications of a mitsumorisho in Japanese business law. Once a mitsumori is accepted and a 'hacchuusho' (発注書 - purchase order) is issued, it becomes a binding agreement. You should be able to discuss the risks of 'mitsumori-more' (見積もり漏れ - omissions in the estimate) and how to mitigate them. At this level, your language skills must reflect a deep understanding of Japanese corporate governance and risk management.
At the C2 level, your understanding and usage of mitsumori should be indistinguishable from a highly educated native Japanese professional. You can navigate the most complex and sensitive negotiations, using idiomatic expressions and highly nuanced phrasing. You understand the strategic use of estimates in corporate bidding wars (nyuusatsu) and can analyze a competitor's mitsumori to find weaknesses. You are comfortable discussing the macroeconomic factors that affect estimates, such as inflation, supply chain disruptions, and currency fluctuations, using precise terminology. You can write comprehensive proposals where the mitsumori is just one part of a larger strategic document. You also understand the subtle cultural dynamics at play; for example, knowing when a vendor's slightly high mitsumori is a polite way of declining the work (kado ga tatanai kotowari). At this mastery level, you are not just translating words; you are using the concept of mitsumori as a tool for persuasion, strategic planning, and relationship building at the executive level. Your Japanese is flawless, authoritative, and deeply culturally attuned.

見積もり in 30 Seconds

  • Means 'estimate' or 'quote' in English.
  • Crucial for business and daily life in Japan.
  • Used with verbs like 'dasu' (submit) and 'toru' (get).
  • Often written as a formal document called 'mitsumorisho'.
The term mitsumori is an essential Japanese vocabulary word that translates to estimate or quote. It is a noun used frequently in both daily life and business contexts. When you ask for a mitsumori, you are asking for a calculation of costs, time, or resources required for a specific project or service. This concept is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, where planning and predictability are highly valued. Understanding how to use this word correctly will significantly improve your ability to navigate professional and personal situations in Japan.

Please send the 見積もり.

The word is made up of two kanji: mi, meaning to see, and tsumori, meaning to accumulate or pile up. Together, they create the image of looking at a pile of something, which metaphorically represents estimating its size or cost.
Kanji Breakdown
見 (mi) means to see, and 積 (tsumu) means to pile up.
In business, a mitsumori-sho is a written estimate, a formal document provided by a vendor to a client. This document outlines the expected costs and serves as a basis for negotiation and contract agreement. Without a proper mitsumori, businesses cannot allocate budgets or make informed decisions. In everyday life, you might request a mitsumori when hiring a moving company, getting your car repaired, or planning a home renovation. It allows consumers to compare prices and choose the best service provider.

I need a 見積もり for the car repair.

The process of getting an estimate is often referred to as mitsumori wo toru. It is common practice to get multiple estimates, known as aimitsumori, to ensure you are getting a fair price. This practice is not only accepted but expected in many industries.
Aimitsumori
Getting multiple quotes to compare prices.
Furthermore, the accuracy of a mitsumori reflects the professionalism and reliability of the service provider. A well-prepared estimate builds trust and sets clear expectations, preventing misunderstandings and disputes later on.

The 見積もり was very accurate.

As a learner of Japanese, mastering the nuances of mitsumori will empower you to handle transactions confidently and respectfully. You will often hear this word in phrases like mitsumori wo onegaishimasu, which means please provide an estimate. It is a polite and standard way to initiate a business inquiry. Additionally, the verb form, mitsumoru, means to estimate or evaluate. While less common than the noun form in everyday speech, it is still an important word to know.

He is preparing the 見積もり now.

In summary, mitsumori is more than just a translation of the word estimate; it is a cultural touchstone that reflects the Japanese emphasis on careful planning, transparency, and mutual agreement. By incorporating this word into your vocabulary, you take a significant step toward fluency and cultural competence.
Cultural Context
Estimates represent trust and careful planning in Japan.
Whether you are navigating a complex corporate deal or simply trying to fix a leaky faucet, knowing how to ask for and understand a mitsumori is an invaluable skill. Always remember to ask for it politely and review it carefully before making any commitments. This attention to detail will serve you well in all your endeavors in Japan. To further elaborate on the importance of this concept, consider the role of the mitsumori in project management. Project managers rely heavily on accurate estimates to create timelines, allocate resources, and manage stakeholder expectations. A project that begins with a flawed mitsumori is likely to encounter significant challenges, including budget overruns and delayed deliveries.

The project failed due to a bad 見積もり.

Therefore, the skill of creating an accurate mitsumori is highly prized in the corporate world. It requires a deep understanding of the project requirements, potential risks, and market conditions. For freelancers and independent contractors, providing a clear and professional mitsumori is often the first step in winning a new client. It demonstrates competence and sets the tone for the working relationship. In conclusion, the word mitsumori encapsulates a critical aspect of Japanese business and consumer culture. It is a word that you will encounter repeatedly, and understanding its full meaning and implications will greatly enhance your communication skills and cultural awareness in Japan.
Using the word mitsumori correctly involves understanding the specific verbs and particles that commonly accompany it. Because it is a noun representing a document or a calculation, it is typically used as the direct object of an action. The most fundamental phrase to learn is mitsumori wo dasu, which means to submit or provide an estimate.

The company will 見積もり wo dasu tomorrow.

This is used from the perspective of the person or company providing the service. Conversely, from the perspective of the client or customer, the phrase is mitsumori wo toru, meaning to get or obtain an estimate.
Client Perspective
Use mitsumori wo toru when you are the one asking for the price.
When you want to politely request an estimate from someone, you would say mitsumori wo onegaishimasu. This is a standard, polite phrase that can be used in almost any situation, from asking a moving company for a price to requesting a quote from a freelance designer. Another common verb used with mitsumori is tateru, as in mitsumori wo tateru. This translates to making or forming an estimate, focusing on the internal process of calculating the costs rather than the act of giving or receiving the document.

We need to 見積もり wo tateru before starting.

In formal business settings, you might encounter more complex vocabulary. For example, mitsumori wo irai suru means to formally request an estimate, and mitsumori wo sakusei suru means to draw up or create an estimate.
Formal Usage
Use irai suru and sakusei suru in strict business contexts.
It is also important to know how to talk about the contents of the estimate. You might ask if something is included in the estimate by saying, kore wa mitsumori ni fukumarete imasu ka? (Is this included in the estimate?).

Check if tax is in the 見積もり.

If the estimate is too high, you might say mitsumori ga takai (the estimate is expensive), and if it is lower than expected, mitsumori ga yasui (the estimate is cheap). When comparing multiple estimates, the term aimitsumori is crucial. You might tell a vendor, aimitsumori wo totte imasu, meaning I am getting multiple quotes. This is a polite way of letting them know they are competing with others, which often encourages them to offer their best price.

We always do aimitsumori to compare 見積もり.

Furthermore, the word can be combined with other nouns to create compound words. For instance, gaikou mitsumori refers to an estimate for exterior work on a house, while shokishiyou mitsumori refers to an estimate of initial costs.
Compound Words
Mitsumori can be attached to almost any service type.
Understanding these variations and combinations allows for much more precise communication. In written Japanese, such as emails, the request for an estimate is often formalized with phrases like mitsumorisho no go-soufu wo onegai itashimasu (Please send the written estimate).

Attached is the requested 見積もり.

This level of formality is expected in corporate communications. By practicing these phrases and understanding the context in which each verb is used, learners can confidently navigate any situation requiring a mitsumori, ensuring clear, polite, and effective communication in Japanese society.
The word mitsumori is ubiquitous in Japan, bridging the gap between everyday consumer life and high-level corporate negotiations. You will hear it in a wide variety of settings, making it one of the most practical words to learn. One of the most common places you will encounter this word is when dealing with housing and moving.

The moving company gave a high 見積もり.

Japan has a highly developed moving industry, and it is standard practice to invite representatives from several moving companies to your home to provide a mitsumori before deciding which one to hire.
Moving Industry
Hikkoshi (moving) always requires a detailed estimate.
Similarly, if you are doing any home renovations, repairs, or construction work, the contractor will always provide a mitsumori detailing the cost of materials and labor. Another frequent context is automotive repair and maintenance. If your car breaks down or needs its mandatory shaken (vehicle inspection), the mechanic will give you a mitsumori before starting any work.

The mechanic's 見積もり included new tires.

This ensures that you are not surprised by the final bill. In the corporate world, mitsumori is heard daily. Whether a company is purchasing new office equipment, hiring a marketing agency, or outsourcing software development, the procurement process always begins with requesting a mitsumori. Sales representatives spend a significant portion of their time creating and presenting these estimates to potential clients.
Corporate Sales
Salesmen must master the art of the mitsumori.
You will also hear this word in the context of event planning. If you are organizing a wedding, a corporate conference, or a large party, the venue and caterers will provide a mitsumori.

The wedding 見積もり was over budget.

Because these events involve many variables, the estimate is often revised multiple times before a final agreement is reached. Freelancers and independent professionals, such as translators, designers, and consultants, also rely heavily on the mitsumori. When a potential client approaches them with a project, their first response is usually to ask for details so they can prepare an estimate. In retail, while you wouldn't ask for an estimate for everyday groceries, you might ask for one when buying custom-made items, such as tailored suits, custom furniture, or specialized electronics.

I got a 見積もり for a custom suit.

Furthermore, the concept extends to intangible services like insurance. When you apply for life insurance or car insurance, the agent will provide a mitsumori showing your monthly premiums based on your specific coverage choices.
Insurance
Insurance quotes are also called mitsumori.
Even in the digital realm, when using online services to compare prices for flights, hotels, or utilities, the results are often framed as a form of mitsumori.

The online 見積もり tool is very fast.

In short, anywhere there is a transaction involving variable costs, customized services, or significant financial investment, the word mitsumori will be front and center. It is the universal language of commerce and negotiation in Japan, making it an indispensable part of your vocabulary arsenal.
While mitsumori is a straightforward concept, learners of Japanese often make several common mistakes when using it, primarily due to confusing it with related financial terms or misusing the associated verbs. The most frequent error is confusing mitsumori (estimate) with seikyusho (invoice) or ryoshusho (receipt).

Do not confuse 見積もり with an invoice.

An estimate is provided before the work begins to outline expected costs. An invoice (seikyusho) is a demand for payment after the work is completed or goods are delivered. A receipt (ryoshusho) is proof that payment has been made. Using the wrong term can cause significant confusion in business transactions.
Financial Terms
Mitsumori = Before, Seikyusho = During/After, Ryoshusho = After Payment.
Another common mistake is related to the verbs used with mitsumori. English speakers often try to translate the phrase 'to make an estimate' directly, leading to unnatural Japanese. While mitsumori wo tsukuru (to make an estimate) is understandable, the more natural and professional phrases are mitsumori wo sakusei suru (to create an estimate) or mitsumori wo tateru (to form an estimate). Similarly, when asking for an estimate, saying mitsumori wo kudasai is grammatically correct but can sound a bit direct or demanding in a formal business context.

Politely ask for a 見積もり using onegaishimasu.

It is much better to use mitsumori wo onegaishimasu or mitsumorisho no teishutsu wo onegai itashimasu (Please submit a written estimate). Learners also sometimes confuse the noun mitsumori with the verb mitsumoru. While mitsumoru means to estimate, it is less commonly used in daily conversation compared to the noun form combined with a verb (e.g., mitsumori wo dasu).
Noun vs Verb
Stick to the noun form for most daily interactions.
For instance, saying kiyou wo mitsumoru (to estimate the cost) is correct, but saying mitsumori wo dasu (to provide an estimate) is far more common when referring to the actual document or quote.

The 見積もり was delayed by a week.

Another subtle mistake involves the concept of aimitsumori (getting multiple quotes). Some learners might say mitsumori wo takusan toru (to get many estimates), which is not wrong, but aimitsumori is the specific, professional term expected in business. Failing to use this term might make you sound less experienced in Japanese business practices. Additionally, it is important to remember the suffix -sho. When you need the physical or digital document, you should specify mitsumori-sho.

Please print the 見積もり sho.

Asking just for a mitsumori might result in a verbal quote, which is often insufficient for corporate record-keeping.
The -sho Suffix
Adding -sho clarifies you need a formal document.
Finally, a cultural mistake is treating the mitsumori as a final, non-negotiable price in all contexts. While it is a strong indicator of the final cost, in many B2B scenarios, the initial estimate is a starting point for negotiation.

We negotiated the 見積もり down by 10%.

Understanding these nuances and avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Japanese sound much more natural and professional, ensuring smooth transactions and clear communication.
In Japanese, there are several words related to estimation, calculation, and budgeting that are similar to mitsumori but have distinct nuances and specific use cases. Understanding these differences is key to achieving advanced fluency. One closely related word is gaisan (概算), which translates to a rough estimate or an approximation.

This is not a final 見積もり, just a gaisan.

While a mitsumori is usually a detailed and formalized document, a gaisan is a quick calculation to give a general idea of the cost. You might ask for a gaisan early in a project before all the details are finalized, and then request a formal mitsumori later.
Gaisan
Use gaisan for a rough, non-binding ballpark figure.
Another similar term is yosan (予算), which means budget. While a mitsumori is the estimated cost provided by the seller, the yosan is the amount of money the buyer has available to spend. A common conversation in business involves comparing the mitsumori to the yosan to see if a deal is feasible.

The 見積もり exceeded our yosan.

Satei (査定) is another word that learners sometimes confuse with mitsumori. Satei means assessment or appraisal, and it is typically used when determining the value of something that already exists, such as assessing the value of a used car before trading it in, or appraising a house.
Satei
Satei is for appraising value, not estimating future costs.
Mitsumori, on the other hand, is usually about the future cost of a service or new product.

We need a satei for the old car, and a 見積もり for the new one.

Yosoku (予測) translates to prediction or forecast. It is used for estimating future trends, weather, or economic conditions, rather than specific project costs. You would not ask a contractor for a yosoku of a bathroom renovation; you would ask for a mitsumori. Keisan (計算) simply means calculation. While creating a mitsumori involves keisan, the two words are not interchangeable. Keisan is the mathematical act, whereas mitsumori is the comprehensive estimate presented to a client.

The keisan in this 見積もり is incorrect.

Finally, hyouka (評価) means evaluation or assessment, usually in the context of performance or quality, such as an employee performance review (jinji hyouka). It does not relate to financial estimates.
Hyouka
Hyouka evaluates quality or performance, not cost.
By distinguishing mitsumori from gaisan (rough estimate), yosan (budget), satei (appraisal), yosoku (prediction), keisan (calculation), and hyouka (evaluation), you can communicate with precision and clarity in any Japanese professional or personal setting.

Understanding these words makes reading a 見積もり easier.

Mastery of these related terms demonstrates a high level of language proficiency and cultural understanding, ensuring that you always use the right word for the right situation.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Noun + を + Verb (見積もりを出す)

Noun + の + Noun (見積もりの内容)

Verb te-form + もらう (見積もりを送ってもらう)

〜に比べて (Comparing estimates)

〜すぎる (見積もりが高すぎる)

Examples by Level

1

見積もりをお願いします。

Please give me an estimate.

Noun + を (wo) + お願いします (onegaishimasu).

2

見積もりはいくらですか?

How much is the estimate?

Noun + は (wa) + いくらですか (ikura desu ka).

3

見積もりを見せてください。

Please show me the estimate.

Verb te-form + ください (kudasai).

4

これは見積もりですか?

Is this an estimate?

これ (kore) + は (wa) + Noun + ですか (desu ka).

5

見積もりが欲しいです。

I want an estimate.

Noun + が (ga) + 欲しいです (hoshii desu).

6

見積もりをください。

Please give me the estimate.

Noun + を (wo) + ください (kudasai).

7

車の見積もりです。

It is an estimate for a car.

Noun + の (no) + Noun.

8

見積もりは無料ですか?

Is the estimate free?

Noun + は (wa) + 無料 (muryou) + ですか (desu ka).

1

明日、見積もりを取ります。

I will get an estimate tomorrow.

Verb dictionary form / masu-form for future.

2

見積もりを出すことができますか?

Can you provide an estimate?

Verb dictionary form + ことができますか (koto ga dekimasu ka).

3

この見積もりは高いです。

This estimate is expensive.

Adjective + です (desu).

4

見積書をメールで送ってください。

Please send the written estimate by email.

Noun + で (de) indicating method.

5

見積もりを待っています。

I am waiting for the estimate.

Verb te-form + います (imasu) for continuous state.

6

新しい見積もりを作りました。

I made a new estimate.

Verb ta-form for past tense.

7

見積もりを比べてみましょう。

Let's compare the estimates.

Verb te-form + みましょう (mimashou).

8

見積もりの内容を確認します。

I will check the contents of the estimate.

Noun + の (no) + Noun.

1

相見積もりを取って、価格を比較します。

I will get multiple quotes and compare prices.

Verb te-form to connect sequential actions.

2

見積書の作成をお願いいたします。

Please prepare the written estimate.

Humble request form: お (o) + Noun + をお願いいたします (wo onegai itashimasu).

3

見積もりには消費税が含まれていますか?

Is consumption tax included in the estimate?

Passive state: 含まれています (fukumarete imasu).

4

予算に合わないので、見積もりを見直してください。

It doesn't fit the budget, so please revise the estimate.

Reason clause with ので (node).

5

見積もりの有効期限はいつまでですか?

Until when is the estimate valid?

Question word いつまで (itsu made).

6

詳細な見積もりを提出していただくことは可能でしょうか。

Would it be possible to have you submit a detailed estimate?

Polite request: していただくことは可能でしょうか (shite itadaku koto wa kanou deshou ka).

7

見積もり金額が予想より高かったです。

The estimated amount was higher than expected.

Comparison using より (yori).

8

まずは概算の見積もりを教えてください。

First, please tell me the rough estimate.

Adverb まずは (mazu wa).

1

見積もり漏れがないか、細部まで確認する必要があります。

We need to check the details to ensure there are no omissions in the estimate.

〜ないか (nai ka) for checking a condition.

2

他社の見積もりを引き合いに出して、価格交渉を行った。

We negotiated the price by referencing another company's estimate.

Verb te-form + 行った (okonatta) for formal action.

3

初期費用の見積もりが予算を大幅に超過している。

The estimate for initial costs greatly exceeds the budget.

Adverb 大幅に (oohaba ni).

4

仕様変更に伴い、見積もりの再算出をお願いします。

Due to the change in specifications, please recalculate the estimate.

〜に伴い (ni tomonai) meaning 'along with / due to'.

5

この見積もりは、あくまで現時点での前提に基づいています。

This estimate is strictly based on the assumptions at this current time.

〜に基づいています (ni motozuite imasu) meaning 'based on'.

6

見積書を受領いたしました。内容を精査の上、ご返答申し上げます。

We have received the estimate. We will reply after scrutinizing the contents.

〜の上 (no ue) meaning 'after doing...'.

7

見積もりの根拠となるデータをご提示いただけますか。

Could you present the data that forms the basis of the estimate?

〜となる (to naru) meaning 'becomes / serves as'.

8

工数が想定より多く、見積もりを修正せざるを得ない。

The man-hours are more than expected, so we have no choice but to revise the estimate.

〜ざるを得ない (zaru o enai) meaning 'cannot help but / have no choice but'.

1

不測の事態に備え、見積もりには一定のバッファを持たせてある。

To prepare for unforeseen circumstances, a certain buffer is included in the estimate.

Causative-passive state: 持たせてある (motasete aru).

2

稟議を通すためには、より説得力のある見積もりが不可欠だ。

To get the internal approval passed, a more persuasive estimate is indispensable.

〜ためには (tame ni wa) for purpose.

3

見積もりの甘さが露呈し、プロジェクトは大幅な赤字に陥った。

The naivety of the estimate was exposed, and the project fell into a massive deficit.

Noun + の甘さ (no amasa) meaning 'looseness/naivety'.

4

下請け業者からの見積もりを叩きすぎると、品質低下を招きかねない。

If you beat down the subcontractor's estimate too much, it could lead to a drop in quality.

〜かねない (kanenai) meaning 'might happen (negative consequence)'.

5

本見積もりは、為替変動リスクを考慮した上で算出されております。

This estimate is calculated taking exchange rate fluctuation risks into account.

〜を考慮した上で (wo kouryo shita ue de).

6

相見積もりの結果、コストパフォーマンスに最も優れたA社に発注を決定した。

As a result of competitive bidding, we decided to place the order with Company A, which had the best cost performance.

〜の結果 (no kekka) meaning 'as a result of'.

7

見積書に記載なき事項については、別途協議とさせていただきます。

Matters not stated in the estimate shall be discussed separately.

〜なき (naki) classical negative form used in formal writing.

8

概算見積もりと正式見積もりの乖離幅を最小限に抑えるよう努めてください。

Please strive to minimize the discrepancy between the rough estimate and the formal estimate.

〜よう努める (you tsutomeru) meaning 'strive to'.

1

見積もりの妥当性を検証すべく、第三者機関による監査を導入した。

In order to verify the validity of the estimate, we introduced an audit by a third-party organization.

〜すべく (subeku) formal expression for 'in order to'.

2

どんぶり勘定での見積もりは、コンプライアンスの観点からも到底容認できるものではない。

A sloppy, ballpark estimate is completely unacceptable from a compliance perspective as well.

到底〜ない (toutei ~ nai) meaning 'cannot possibly'.

3

見積もりの前提条件が根底から覆った以上、白紙撤回も辞さない構えだ。

Now that the preconditions of the estimate have been fundamentally overturned, we are prepared to scrap it entirely.

〜以上 (ijou) meaning 'now that / since'.

4

競合他社の見積もりをリークするような行為は、明白な背任行為に該当する。

Acts such as leaking a competitor's estimate constitute a clear breach of trust.

〜に該当する (ni gaitou suru) meaning 'falls under / constitutes'.

5

極端な安値での見積もりは、いわゆる「安物買いの銭失い」の典型例となり得る。

An estimate with an extremely low price can become a typical example of 'penny wise and pound foolish'.

〜となり得る (to nariuru) meaning 'can become'.

6

見積書に潜む隠れたコストを見抜く眼力が、購買担当者には求められる。

Purchasing managers are required to have the insight to see through hidden costs lurking in estimates.

〜に潜む (ni hisomu) meaning 'lurking in'.

7

口頭での見積もりは言った言わないのトラブルの元凶となるため、必ず書面で残すこと。

Because verbal estimates are the root cause of 'he said, she said' troubles, always leave them in writing.

〜の元凶となる (no genkyou to naru) meaning 'becomes the root cause of'.

8

当該見積もりは、現行の法規制に準拠していることを宣誓するものである。

This estimate serves as an oath that it complies with current laws and regulations.

〜を宣誓するものである (wo sensei suru mono de aru) highly formal declarative.

Common Collocations

見積もりを出す
見積もりを取る
見積もりを立てる
見積もりを依頼する
見積もりを作成する
見積もりを比較する
見積もりを見直す
見積もりが甘い
見積もりが高い
相見積もり

Common Phrases

見積もりをお願いします
見積書を添付いたします
相見積もりを取る
見積もりに含まれる
見積もりをオーバーする
見積もりを修正する
見積もりを提示する
見積もりを承認する
見積もりを再計算する
見積もりを依頼中

Often Confused With

見積もり vs 請求書 (Invoice)

見積もり vs 領収書 (Receipt)

見積もり vs 予算 (Budget)

Idioms & Expressions

"見積もりが甘い"
"どんぶり勘定"
"捕らぬ狸の皮算用"
"見積もりを叩く"
"相見積もりにかける"
"見積もりを丸呑みする"
"見積もりが狂う"
"見積もりを弾く"
"見積もりを練る"
"見積もりを出すまでもない"

Easily Confused

見積もり vs

見積もり vs

見積もり vs

見積もり vs

見積もり vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

nuance

Implies a calculated guess, not a random number.

formality

Highly versatile. Can be used in casual chats or formal contracts.

Common Mistakes
  • Confusing mitsumori (estimate) with seikyusho (invoice).
  • Saying 'mitsumori wo tsukuru' instead of 'mitsumori wo sakusei suru' in formal contexts.
  • Using 'mitsumori wo kudasai' which sounds too direct; use 'onegaishimasu' instead.
  • Forgetting to ask if the estimate includes tax (zeikomi).
  • Assuming a verbal quote is as good as a written mitsumorisho.

Tips

Use the right verb

Remember: You 'toru' (get) an estimate, and the company 'dasu' (submits) it. Mixing these up sounds unnatural.

Aimitsumori is normal

Don't feel bad getting multiple quotes. It is standard practice in Japan. Just be polite about it.

Add 'sho' for documents

If you need it in writing, say 'mitsumorisho'. Otherwise, you might just get a verbal price.

Check for tax

Always check if the estimate is 'zeikomi' (tax included) or 'zeinuki' (tax excluded). This prevents surprises.

Polite requests

Use 'onegaishimasu' when asking for a quote. It is simple, polite, and effective.

Formal emails

In emails, use 'sakusei' (create) instead of 'tsukuru' (make) for a more professional tone.

Use the budget excuse

If an estimate is too high, say it exceeds your 'yosan' (budget). It is a polite way to negotiate.

Listen for 'gaisan'

If they say 'gaisan', know that the price might change later. It is not final.

Check the expiration

Estimates usually have a 'yuukou kigen' (expiration date). Read it carefully.

Don't confuse with invoice

Mitsumori = Before. Seikyusho = After. Memorize this rule.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

ME (見) and TWO MORE (つもり) guys are needed to finish the job, so let's get an ESTIMATE.

Word Origin

Japanese native word (Wago)

Cultural Context

Never accept the first verbal price for a large project. Always request a formal mitsumorisho.

Getting multiple quotes is not seen as rude; it is a sign of a responsible buyer.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"引っ越しの見積もりはもう取りましたか? (Have you gotten the moving estimate yet?)"

"相見積もりを取ったほうがいいですよ。(You should get multiple quotes.)"

"見積もりが予算をオーバーしています。(The estimate is over budget.)"

"車の修理、見積もりはいくらでしたか? (How much was the estimate for the car repair?)"

"見積書をメールで送ってもらえますか? (Can you email me the estimate?)"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you received an estimate that was much higher than expected.

Describe the process of getting a mitsumori for a service in your home country versus Japan.

Why do you think aimitsumori is so important in business?

Write a mock email requesting a mitsumori for a freelance design project.

Explain the difference between mitsumori, seikyusho, and ryoshusho.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Mitsumori is an estimate given before work starts. Seikyusho is an invoice given after work is done. You use a mitsumori to decide if you want to buy. You use a seikyusho to know how much to pay. Do not confuse them in business.

The most common and polite way is 'Mitsumori o onegaishimasu'. In a very formal email, use 'Mitsumorisho no sakusei o onegai itashimasu'. Always add 'please' to soften the request. Avoid demanding it directly.

Aimitsumori means getting multiple estimates from different companies. It is a common practice to compare prices. It helps you find the best deal. Vendors expect you to do this.

Usually, a mitsumori itself is not a final contract. However, once you accept it and issue a purchase order, it becomes binding. Always read the terms carefully. Some estimates have expiration dates.

Yes, especially in B2B transactions. You can ask for a discount or remove certain items. Use phrases like 'Mou sukoshi yasuku narimasen ka?'. Negotiation is expected in many industries.

Gaisan is a rough estimate. It is less detailed than a formal mitsumori. You ask for a gaisan early in a project. Later, you get a formal mitsumori.

Most estimates are free (muryou). However, some complex projects might charge an estimation fee. Always ask 'Mitsumori wa muryou desu ka?' beforehand.

Use the verb 'toru' (to take/get). The phrase is 'mitsumori o torimashita'. Do not use 'morau' unless someone handed it to you directly as a favor.

It is the physical or digital written document of the estimate. 'Sho' means document. Always ask for a mitsumorisho for your records.

It shows respect, careful planning, and transparency. Japanese culture dislikes financial surprises. A good estimate builds trust between the buyer and seller.

Test Yourself 180 questions

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