知らせ
知らせ means information or news that you receive or give to someone.
Explanation at your level:
Hello! Today we learn 知らせ. This word means 'news' or 'notice.' It is like when someone tells you something. For example, maybe your mom tells you, 'Dinner is ready!' That is a 知らせ. Or, maybe you get a paper from school. That paper is a 知らせ. It is information for you. You can say, 'I got a 知らせ.' It is a thing you receive. It is simple news.
知らせ is a Japanese noun that means 'notice,' 'information,' or 'news.' It's used when someone or something gives you information. For example, if there's a change in the train schedule, you might see a 知らせ at the station. Or, if your friend has a birthday party, they might send you a 知らせ (an invitation). It's a common word for any kind of message that informs you about something important or new.
The Japanese word 知らせ translates to 'notice,' 'information,' or 'news.' It's a fundamental noun for conveying updates or announcements. You'll encounter 知らせ in various contexts, from official bulletins to personal messages. For instance, a school might post a 知らせ about upcoming holidays, or a company might issue a 知らせ regarding a product update. It’s the general term for any piece of information being communicated.
知らせ (shirase) is a Japanese noun signifying 'notice,' 'information,' or 'news.' It encompasses any communication intended to inform the recipient. This can range from formal public announcements and official notifications to more informal updates between individuals. Understanding the context is key, as 知らせ can refer to anything from a weather advisory to a personal message. It's a neutral term that covers a broad spectrum of informational exchange.
In Japanese, 知らせ (shirase) functions as a noun denoting 'notice,' 'information,' or 'news.' Its utility lies in its broad applicability across formal and informal registers. It can represent official communiqués, such as a government 知らせ regarding policy changes, or more personal updates, like a friend sending a 知らせ about their new address. The term emphasizes the act of making something known, serving as a crucial element in the dissemination of information within society and interpersonal relationships.
知らせ (shirase) is a multifaceted Japanese noun encompassing 'notice,' 'information,' and 'news.' Its etymological roots in the verb shiraseru (to inform) highlight its core function: the act of conveying knowledge. This noun can denote anything from a critical public health advisory to a subtle piece of intelligence shared in confidence. The term's neutrality allows it to adapt to various contexts, serving as a foundational concept in understanding the flow of communication, whether in official decrees, academic discourse, or the nuanced exchanges of daily life. Its prevalence underscores the cultural importance placed on shared awareness and timely updates.
Word in 30 Seconds
- 知らせ (shirase) means notice, news, or information.
- It's a versatile noun used in many contexts, from formal to casual.
- It originates from the verb 知らせる (shiraseru - to inform).
- Often used in collocations like 'important notice' or 'urgent news'.
Hey there! Let's dive into the cool Japanese word 知らせ (shirase). It's a super useful noun that basically means 'notice,' 'information,' or 'news.' Think of it as anything that lets you know about something. It’s the stuff that keeps us all in the loop, whether it's a big announcement or just a little update. You'll find 知らせ popping up in all sorts of situations, from official messages to casual chats. It’s all about sharing what’s going on!
Imagine you’re waiting for a package. The 知らせ you get might be a tracking number or a delivery confirmation. Or maybe your friend is planning a party; the 知らせ is the invitation they send out. It’s the bridge that connects people through information. Understanding 知らせ helps you grasp how communication works in Japanese, making it easier to follow conversations and read signs. It’s a fundamental concept for anyone learning the language!
The word 知らせ comes from the verb shiraseru (知らせる), which means 'to inform' or 'to notify.' The verb itself has roots in older Japanese forms, likely evolving from words related to knowing or being aware. The '-seru' ending is a causative suffix, meaning it implies causing someone to know something.
Historically, the act of informing or notifying was crucial for social order and governance. Before modern communication, 知らせ would be spread through town criers, official messengers, or written notices. The kanji 知 (chi) means 'to know,' and ら (ra) is a particle, with せる (seru) being the verb ending. So, literally, it's about 'making known.' This core meaning has remained consistent throughout the centuries, making 知らせ a fundamental part of Japanese communication. It’s fascinating how such a simple word carries the weight of historical methods of sharing vital information!
知らせ is a versatile noun used in many contexts. You'll often hear it in situations where information is being exchanged. For instance, you might receive an important 知らせ (jūyō na shirase) or an urgent 知らせ (kin kyū na shirase). It can be used for both positive and negative news. Think about receiving a job offer 知らせ (shigoto no yotei no shirase) or a cancellation 知らせ (kyan seru no shirase).
In formal settings, like business or government, 知らせ might be used for official announcements or notifications. For example, a company might send out a press 知らせ (puresu shirase) or a public 知らせ (kōkyō no shirase). In everyday life, it’s more casual. You might tell a friend, 'I have some 知らせ for you!' (Kimi ni shirase ga aru yo!). The key is that it always implies the transfer of information from one party to another. It’s rarely used for personal feelings unless they are being communicated as news.
While 知らせ itself isn't typically part of many fixed idioms, the concept of informing and being informed is rich in Japanese expressions. Here are a few related ideas:
- 知らせる (Shiraseru): This is the verb form, meaning 'to inform' or 'to let someone know.' It's the action behind the noun. Example: 明日会議があることを皆に知らせてください。(Ashita kaigi ga aru koto o minna ni shirase te kudasai.) - Please let everyone know that there is a meeting tomorrow.
- 内緒 (Naisho): Meaning 'secret' or 'confidential.' This is the opposite of something being shared as 知らせ. Example: これは内緒だよ。(Kore wa naisho da yo.) - This is a secret.
- 噂 (Uwasa): Meaning 'rumor.' While 知らせ is usually factual information, a uwasa is unconfirmed news. Example: 街には奇妙な噂が流れている。(Machi ni wa kimyō na uwasa ga nagarete iru.) - Strange rumors are circulating in town.
- 音沙汰 (Otodate): This refers to news or contact from someone, especially after a long silence. Example: 彼から何の音沙汰もない。(Kare kara nan no otodate mo nai.) - I haven't heard any news from him.
- 告げる (Tsuge ru): Another verb meaning 'to tell' or 'to announce,' often used for more formal or significant news. Example: 王は民に新しい法律を告げた。(Ō wa tami ni atarashii hōritsu o tsuge ta.) - The king announced the new law to the people.
知らせ is a noun. As a noun, it can be the subject or object of a sentence. For example, 'The 知らせ arrived late' (Shirase wa okure te kita) or 'I received the 知らせ' (Shirase o uketorimashita). It often appears with particles like wa (は), ga (が), or o (を).
Pronunciation: The word is pronounced shi-ra-se. It has three syllables. The stress is fairly even across the syllables, without a strong emphasis on any one part, which is typical for Japanese words. In terms of IPA, it's roughly /ɕiɾa̠se̞/. Rhyming words are rare in Japanese due to its syllabic structure, but words ending in '-ase' might share a similar sound pattern, like 'hase' (run) or 'kase' (earn), though these are not perfect rhymes.
Plural Forms: Japanese nouns generally don't have distinct plural forms like English. The context usually makes it clear whether you're talking about one piece of information or multiple. If you need to emphasize plurality, you might use counters or phrases like 'takusan no shirase' (many notices).
Fun Fact
The verb 知らせる (shiraseru) is a causative form of 知る (shiru - to know), literally meaning 'to make [someone] know'.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'shee-rah-seh', with a slight emphasis on the first syllable.
Similar to UK, 'shee-rah-seh', with relatively even stress.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing it with English intonation patterns.
- Adding a strong 'r' sound instead of the Japanese flap 'r'.
- Misplacing stress, if any, as Japanese stress is subtle.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to understand in context, but nuances exist.
Straightforward to use in basic sentences.
Commonly used, pronunciation is simple.
Easily recognizable in spoken Japanese.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Causative Verb Forms
知る (shiru - to know) -> 知らせる (shiraseru - to make know/inform)
Particles (は, が, を, の)
知らせは大切です。(Shirase wa taisetsu desu.) / 知らせが届いた。(Shirase ga todoita.) / 知らせを受け取った。(Shirase o uketotta.)
Adjective + Noun Combinations
良い知らせ (yoi shirase - good news), 緊急の知らせ (kinkyū no shirase - urgent notice)
Examples by Level
これは 知らせ です。
This is notice.
This 'wa' marks the topic.
私に 知らせ をください。
'o' marks the direct object.
いい 知らせ です。
'desu' is the polite copula.
悪い 知らせ です。
Adjective 'warui' (bad) modifies 'shirase'.
学校の 知らせ。
The particle 'no' shows possession.
大切(たいせつ)な 知らせ。
'taisetsu na' is a na-adjective.
聞(き)いて！ 知らせ があるよ。
'aru yo' adds emphasis.
これ、読(よ)んで。 知らせ だよ。
'da yo' is a casual sentence ending.
駅に 電車の遅延(ちえん)の知らせがありました。
At the station, there was a notice of train delay.
〜の知らせ indicates the topic of the notice.
明日の天気予報の知らせをチェックしました。
I checked the notice for tomorrow's weather forecast.
〜をチェックしました means 'checked'.
会議の変更について、皆さんに知らせを送ります。
Regarding the meeting change, I will send a notice to everyone.
〜を送ります means 'will send'.
新しいレストランの開店の知らせを聞きました。
I heard the news about the opening of a new restaurant.
〜を聞きました means 'heard'.
大切な知らせなので、すぐにご連絡ください。
Because it is important information, please contact us immediately.
〜ので means 'because'.
彼の引っ越しについて、何か知らせはありましたか？
Was there any news about his moving?
〜はありましたか？ asks 'Was there...?'
この書類は、重要な知らせを含んでいます。
This document contains important information.
〜を含んでいます means 'contains'.
町内会から回覧板で大事な知らせが届きました。
An important notice arrived by community newsletter.
〜が届きました means 'arrived'.
学校から、保護者向けの新しい規則に関する知らせがありました。
There was a notice from the school regarding new regulations for parents.
〜に関する means 'regarding'.
緊急の知らせを受け取り、すぐに会議を招集しました。
Receiving urgent news, I immediately convened a meeting.
〜を受け取り, 〜しました is a conjunctive form.
このウェブサイトでは、最新のイベント情報を知らせとして提供しています。
This website provides the latest event information as notices.
〜として provides context for the noun.
残念ながら、そのプロジェクトは中止になったという知らせを受け取りました。
Unfortunately, I received the news that the project has been canceled.
〜という indicates reported speech or content.
何か変更があれば、速やかに知らせていただけますでしょうか？
If there are any changes, could you please inform us promptly?
〜ていただけますでしょうか is a polite request form.
彼の突然の辞任の知らせは、社内に衝撃を与えた。
The news of his sudden resignation shocked the company.
〜は衝撃を与えた means 'gave a shock'.
この地域では、自然災害に関する定期的な知らせがあります。
In this region, there are regular notices regarding natural disasters.
〜に関する is used for related topics.
卒業式の詳細について、後日改めて知らせがあるとのことです。
It is said that there will be further notice regarding the details of the graduation ceremony at a later date.
〜とのことです is used to report information.
政府は、国民の安全確保のため、新たな警戒レベルに関する知らせを発表した。
The government announced a notice regarding a new alert level to ensure the safety of the citizens.
〜のため means 'for the purpose of'.
長らく音信不通だった友人から、結婚の知らせが届き、大変喜んだ。
I was overjoyed to receive news of my friend's marriage, from whom I hadn't heard for a long time.
音信不通 (onshin futsū) means 'out of contact'.
この度の不祥事につきまして、深くお詫び申し上げますとともに、再発防止策について改めて知らせいたします。
Regarding this scandal, we deeply apologize and will provide further notice about recurrence prevention measures.
〜につきまして is a formal way of saying 'regarding'.
彼の芸術的功績を称え、 posthumous exhibition の知らせが世界中に発信された。
To honor his artistic achievements, news of a posthumous exhibition was disseminated worldwide.
posthumous exhibition is borrowed from English.
株価の急落という知らせを受け、投資家たちは市場から資金を引き揚げ始めた。
Upon receiving the news of a sharp stock market decline, investors began withdrawing funds from the market.
〜という知らせ means 'news that...'
地域住民への影響を最小限に抑えるため、工事のスケジュール変更に関する詳細な知らせが配布された。
Detailed notices regarding construction schedule changes were distributed to minimize the impact on local residents.
〜を最小限に抑える means 'to minimize'.
長年の研究が実を結び、画期的な治療法の発見という知らせが医学界に届けられた。
Years of research bore fruit, and news of the discovery of a groundbreaking treatment method reached the medical community.
画期的 (gakkiteki) means 'groundbreaking'.
予期せぬ自然災害の発生により、最新の状況に関する知らせが逐一更新されています。
Due to the occurrence of an unexpected natural disaster, updates regarding the latest situation are being provided one after another.
逐一 (chikuichi) means 'one by one' or 'constantly'.
その企業の合併に関する公式な知らせは、市場の憶測に終止符を打つものとなった。
The official announcement regarding the company's merger put an end to market speculation.
憶測に終止符を打つ (okusoku ni shūshi fu o utsu) means 'to put an end to speculation'.
長年にわたる沈黙を破り、著名な作家からの新作発表の知らせが文学界に大きな興奮をもたらした。
Breaking years of silence, the news of a new work's release from a renowned author brought great excitement to the literary world.
沈黙を破る (chinmoku o yaburu) means 'to break the silence'.
今回の国際会議では、気候変動対策に関する各国の進捗状況についての詳細な知らせが共有された。
At this international conference, detailed information regarding the progress of each country's climate change countermeasures was shared.
気候変動対策 (kikō hendō taisaku) means 'climate change countermeasures'.
予期せぬ株価の大幅下落という知らせを受け、中央銀行は緊急の金融政策会合の開催を決定した。
Upon receiving news of an unexpected, significant drop in stock prices, the central bank decided to hold an emergency monetary policy meeting.
金融政策 (kin'yū seisaku) means 'monetary policy'.
この地域におけるパンデミックの再燃という知らせを受け、公衆衛生当局は厳格な措置の再導入を検討している。
Receiving news of a resurgence of the pandemic in this region, public health authorities are considering the reintroduction of strict measures.
再燃 (sai'nen) means 'resurgence' or 'flare-up'.
彼の長年の功績が認められ、ノーベル賞受賞という栄誉ある知らせが世界中に配信された。
Recognizing his long-standing achievements, the prestigious news of his Nobel Prize award was distributed worldwide.
栄誉ある (eiyo aru) means 'prestigious' or 'honorable'.
最新の研究結果によれば、この新薬は難病に対する効果的な治療法となりうるという希望に満ちた知らせが得られた。
According to the latest research findings, hopeful news has been obtained that this new drug could become an effective treatment for intractable diseases.
難病 (nanbyō) means 'intractable disease'.
都市開発計画の遅延という知らせは、地域住民の間に失望感をもたらしたが、同時に代替案の検討を促す契機ともなった。
The news of the delay in the urban development plan brought disappointment among local residents, but at the same time, it served as an opportunity to consider alternative plans.
契機 (keiki) means 'opportunity' or 'trigger'.
その古代遺跡の発掘現場から、これまで知られていなかった文明の存在を示唆する画期的な知らせがもたらされた。
From the excavation site of that ancient ruin, groundbreaking news was brought forth, suggesting the existence of a previously unknown civilization.
示唆する (shisa suru) means 'to suggest' or 'to imply'.
長らく学界の定説とされてきた理論に疑問を投げかける、驚くべき実験結果という知らせが、専門家の間で激しい議論を巻き起こした。
News of surprising experimental results, which cast doubt on the theory long held as academic consensus, sparked intense debate among experts.
定説 (teisetsu) means 'established theory' or 'consensus'.
その芸術家の遺作展の開催にあたり、彼の初期の隠された作品群に関する新たな発見という知らせが、美術史における彼の位置づけを再考させるものとなった。
Regarding the exhibition of the artist's posthumous works, news of a new discovery concerning his early, hidden body of work prompted a re-evaluation of his place in art history.
遺作展 (isaku ten) means 'posthumous exhibition'.
予期せぬ地政学的な緊張の高まりという知らせを受け、国際社会は外交的解決に向けた緊急協議の場を設けることを余儀なくされた。
Upon receiving news of an unexpected escalation in geopolitical tensions, the international community was compelled to establish a forum for urgent consultations towards a diplomatic resolution.
地政学的 (chiseigaku teki) means 'geopolitical'.
この希少疾患に対する画期的な治療法の開発成功という知らせは、長年にわたり有効な手段を渇望していた患者とその家族に、計り知れない希望の光をもたらした。
The news of the successful development of a groundbreaking treatment for this rare disease brought an immeasurable ray of hope to patients and their families who had longed for an effective remedy for many years.
渇望していた (katsubō shite ita) means 'had been longing for'.
その企業の長年にわたる環境破壊行為に対する告発という知らせが公になったことで、株価は暴落し、経営陣の総辞職につながった。
When the news of accusations regarding the company's long-standing environmental destruction practices became public, its stock price plummeted, leading to the resignation of the entire management team.
告発 (kokuhatsu) means 'accusation' or 'indictment'.
長らく未解決とされてきた難事件の真相解明につながる、決定的な証拠発見という知らせは、捜査当局のみならず、世間の関心をも大いに集めることとなった。
News of the discovery of decisive evidence, leading to the unraveling of the truth behind a long-unsolved difficult case, attracted significant attention not only from law enforcement but also from the public.
真相解明 (shinsō kai me i) means 'unraveling the truth'.
その古典文学作品の新たな解釈を提示する論文の発表という知らせは、学術界に活気をもたらし、既存の権威に対する挑戦状とも受け取られた。
The announcement of a paper presenting a new interpretation of that classic literary work invigorated the academic community and was perceived as a challenge to existing authorities.
挑戦状 (chōsenjō) means 'challenge' or 'declaration of challenge'.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"知らせを聞く (shirase o kiku)"
To hear news or information.
彼が昇進したという知らせを聞いて、とても嬉しかった。(Kare ga shōshin shita to iu shirase o kiite, totemo ureshikatta.) - I was very happy to hear the news that he got promoted.
neutral"知らせを待つ (shirase o matsu)"
To wait for news or a notification.
結果の知らせを今か今かと待っている。(Kekka no shirase o ima ka ima ka to matte iru.) - I am eagerly waiting for the news of the results.
neutral"知らせが途絶える (shirase ga todaeru)"
For news or contact to cease; to stop hearing from someone.
引っ越してから、彼女からの知らせが途絶えてしまった。(Hikko shi te kara, kanojo kara no shirase ga todaete shimatta.) - After moving, news from her has stopped.
neutral"良い知らせをもたらす (yoi shirase o motarasu)"
To bring good news.
その知らせは、皆に希望をもたらした。(Sono shirase wa, minna ni kibō o motarashita.) - That news brought hope to everyone.
neutral"悪い知らせを伝える (warui shirase o tsutaeru)"
To deliver bad news.
医者は患者の家族に、厳しい知らせを伝えなければならなかった。(Isha wa kanja no kazoku ni, kibishii shirase o tsutaenakereba naranakatta.) - The doctor had to deliver grim news to the patient's family.
neutral"知らせひとつない (shirase hitotsu nai)"
Not a single piece of news; no contact at all.
彼は家を出たきり、知らせひとつない。(Kare wa ie o deta kiri, shirase hitotsu nai.) - He left home and hasn't sent any news at all.
casualEasily Confused
Both mean 'information' or 'news'.
情報 is broader, referring to data or intelligence. 知らせ is more specific, like a notification or a piece of news delivered.
最新の情報を提供する (Saishin no jōhō o teikyō suru - To provide the latest information). 緊急の知らせを受け取った (Kinkyū no shirase o uketotta - Received an urgent notice).
Both refer to news.
ニュース is a loanword from English, typically used for current events reported by media. 知らせ is a native Japanese word, used more broadly for any kind of notice or information.
テレビでニュースを見た (Terebi de nyūsu o mita - Watched the news on TV). 学校からの知らせを確認した (Gakkō kara no shirase o kakunin shita - Checked the notice from school).
Both mean 'notice' or 'notification'.
通知 is generally more formal and official than 知らせ, often used for administrative or legal notifications.
銀行からの通知書 (Ginkō kara no tsūchisho - Notification letter from the bank). 町内会からの大事な知らせ (Chōnaikai kara no daiji na shirase - Important notice from the neighborhood association).
Both can be types of information.
知らせ is typically factual information from a source. 噂 is a rumor, gossip, or hearsay, often unverified.
その噂は本当ですか？ (Sono uwasa wa hontō desu ka? - Is that rumor true?). 彼の昇進の知らせを聞いた (Kare no shōshin no shirase o kiita - Heard the news of his promotion).
Sentence Patterns
Noun + は/が + 知らせ + です。
これは良い知らせです。(Kore wa yoi shirase desu.) - This is good news.
Noun + の + 知らせ
会議の知らせが来ました。(Kaigi no shirase ga kimashita.) - Notice of the meeting arrived.
〜という + 知らせ
彼が優勝したという知らせを聞いた。(Kare ga yūshō shita to iu shirase o kiita.) - I heard the news that he won.
知らせ + を + 受け取る/聞く/待つ
結果の知らせを待っています。(Kekka no shirase o matte imasu.) - I am waiting for the news of the results.
形容詞 + 知らせ
緊急の知らせがあった。(Kinkyū no shirase ga atta.) - There was an urgent notice.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
知らせ specifically refers to conveyed information, not internal emotions.
While both are types of information, 知らせ implies a more reliable source.
知らせ can sound a bit formal or stiff in very casual chats.
Direct translation can lead to errors like 'two shirases'.
知らせ is a noun; it cannot function as a verb.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a giant 'SHIRASE' signpost at a crossroads, directing you to different types of information: 'Good News,' 'Bad News,' 'Official Notice.'
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 知らせ on public announcement systems, in official letters, or when someone says 'I have some news for you!' (知らせがあるよ - shirase ga aru yo).
Cultural Insight
In Japan, timely and clear communication is valued. 知らせ plays a key role in ensuring everyone is informed, from community matters to national updates.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember that 知らせ is a noun. If you want to say 'to inform,' use the verb 知らせる (shiraseru).
Say It Right
Focus on the three distinct syllables: shi-ra-se. Avoid strong English-style stress; keep the pronunciation relatively flat and clear.
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid translating 'a notice' as 'ichi shirase' (one shirase). Japanese often omits counters for general nouns like this.
Did You Know?
The kanji 知 (chi) means 'to know,' highlighting that 知らせ is all about making someone aware of something.
Study Smart
Create flashcards with 知らせ on one side and 'Notice/News/Information' on the other. Add example sentences for context.
Build Around It
Learn related verbs like 知らせる (to inform) and nouns like 通知 (formal notice) to understand the nuances of conveying information.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine someone SHOUTING 'RAISE!' (like 'shirase') to get your attention for important news.
Visual Association
Picture a large envelope with 'SHIRASE' written on it, containing important documents.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 知らせ in a sentence about something you learned today.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: To cause someone to know.
Cultural Context
Generally neutral, but the content of the 知らせ can be sensitive (e.g., bad news, personal information).
In English-speaking cultures, 'news' often implies current events, while 'notice' is more for official announcements. 'Information' is very general. 知らせ covers aspects of all three.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At School
- 学校からのお知らせ (Gakkō kara no oshirase) - Notice from school
- テストの結果の知らせ (Tesuto no kekka no shirase) - Notice of test results
- 保護者への知らせ (Hogosha e no shirase) - Notice to parents
At Work
- 会議の変更のお知らせ (Kaigi no henkō no oshirase) - Notice of meeting change
- 新しい方針についての知らせ (Atarashii hōshin ni tsuite no shirase) - Notice about new policy
- 社内への重要なお知らせ (Shanai e no jūyō na oshirase) - Important notice to staff
Public Places
- 休館のお知らせ (Kyūkan no oshirase) - Notice of closure
- 工事中のお知らせ (Kōjichū no oshirase) - Notice: Under construction
- 緊急時の知らせ (Kinkyūji no shirase) - Emergency notice
Personal Communication
- 良い知らせを聞いたよ！(Yoi shirase o kiita yo!) - I heard good news!
- 何か知らせはあった？(Nanika shirase wa atta?) - Was there any news?
- 彼からの知らせを待っている。(Kare kara no shirase o matte iru.) - Waiting for news from him.
Conversation Starters
"何か面白い知らせはありましたか？ (Nanika omoshiroi shirase wa arimashita ka?) - Did you get any interesting news?"
"今日のニュースで何か気になる知らせはありましたか？ (Kyō no nyūsu de nanika ki ni naru shirase wa arimashita ka?) - Was there any news today that caught your attention?"
"その件について、何か新しい知らせは入っていますか？ (Sono ken ni tsuite, nanika atarashii shirase wa haitte imasu ka?) - Has any new information come in regarding that matter?"
"あなたの街では、最近何か特別な知らせがありましたか？ (Anata no machi de wa, saikin nanika tokubetsu na shirase ga arimashita ka?) - Has there been any special announcement in your town recently?"
"もし何か重要な知らせがあったら、すぐに教えてくださいね。(Moshi nanika jūyō na shirase ga attara, sugu ni oshiete kudasai ne.) - If there's any important news, please let me know right away."
Journal Prompts
Write about a time you received important news (知らせ). How did it affect you?
Describe a situation where you had to give someone important information (知らせ). What was it?
Imagine you are a town crier. What kind of 知らせ (notices) would you announce to the people?
Reflect on the difference between official 知らせ (notices) and personal news shared among friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions知らせ is more like a 'notice' or 'news' that informs you of something specific. 情報 is a broader term for 'information' or 'data' in general.
No, 知らせ refers to external information being conveyed. For feelings, use words like 気持ち (kimochi) or 思い (omoi).
In Japanese, nouns like 知らせ are generally not counted with numbers directly. Context usually clarifies if it's one or multiple pieces of information.
Japanese nouns don't typically have distinct plural forms. You'd use context or add words like 'many' (たくさん - takusan) if needed.
The verb form is 知らせる (shiraseru), meaning 'to inform' or 'to notify'.
知らせ is often used for more specific or official notices, while ニュース is common for general current events reported by media.
知らせ is generally neutral, but can lean slightly formal depending on context. For very formal situations, 通知 (tsūchi) or 告知 (kokuchi) might be preferred.
Yes, 知らせ can include warnings or alerts, such as a weather warning or a safety notice.
Test Yourself
これは 大切な ______ です。
大切な (taisetsu na) means important, and 知らせ is the correct noun for 'notice' or 'important news' here.
What does 知らせ mean?
知らせ is the Japanese word for notice or news.
知らせ can only be used for bad news.
知らせ can refer to any kind of news, good or bad, or just general information.
Word
Meaning
These phrases combine adjectives with the noun 知らせ to specify the type of news.
The correct sentence is 会議の変更の知らせを送ります (Kaigi no henkō no shirase o okurimasu), meaning 'I will send notice of the meeting change'.
学校から、保護者向けの新しい規則に関する ______ がありました。
The context 'from the school regarding new regulations' points to an official 'notice' (知らせ).
Which word is the most formal synonym for 知らせ in the context of an official announcement?
通知 (tsūchi) is a formal notification, more so than the others.
The noun 知らせ inherently implies a degree of urgency.
While 知らせ can be urgent, it is a general term for information and doesn't inherently imply urgency.
今日の ______ は何ですか？
What is today's news/information?
He sent news of his marriage.
Score: /10
Summary
知らせ is your go-to word in Japanese for any kind of notice or piece of news you receive or give.
- 知らせ (shirase) means notice, news, or information.
- It's a versatile noun used in many contexts, from formal to casual.
- It originates from the verb 知らせる (shiraseru - to inform).
- Often used in collocations like 'important notice' or 'urgent news'.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a giant 'SHIRASE' signpost at a crossroads, directing you to different types of information: 'Good News,' 'Bad News,' 'Official Notice.'
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 知らせ on public announcement systems, in official letters, or when someone says 'I have some news for you!' (知らせがあるよ - shirase ga aru yo).
Cultural Insight
In Japan, timely and clear communication is valued. 知らせ plays a key role in ensuring everyone is informed, from community matters to national updates.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember that 知らせ is a noun. If you want to say 'to inform,' use the verb 知らせる (shiraseru).
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More communication words
について
A2about; concerning
宛先
B1The address or name of the recipient to whom mail or an email is sent.
番地
A2House number
賛同
B1Approval, endorsement; support or agreement with an idea.
~も
A2Too, also.
〜そして
A1And then; and (used to connect sentences or clauses).
たり
A2Indicates a non-exhaustive list of actions/states ('and so on').
〜や
A2And; and so forth (used to list examples, implying others exist).
お知らせ
B1Notice; an announcement or communication.
答え
A2A thing said, written, or done as a reaction to a question or statement.
