Translation guide
The English word 'acknowledgment' covers a range of meanings from admitting facts and expressing gratitude to recognizing someone's presence or work. This guide breaks down these uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
To admit that something is true or to accept a situation, often reluctantly.
The most common verb for acknowledging a fact, mistake, or truth. Can be used in many contexts.
He acknowledged his mistake.
To recognize or be aware of a fact or situation. Often used in formal or analytical contexts.
To confess or admit something personal or secret, often with emotional weight.
He acknowledged his guilt.
To show appreciation for help, support, or contribution.
The standard verb for expressing gratitude. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
To show that you have noticed someone, often with a nod, wave, or brief greeting.
To confirm that you have received something, such as a letter, email, or payment.
A clear phrase meaning 'to inform that you have received'. Used in business and daily life.
A section in a book, thesis, or report where the author thanks contributors.
The standard term for 'acknowledgments' in a thesis or book. Used as a heading.
The English word 'acknowledgment' is broad. Directly translating it as '承認' (しょうにん) often sounds like official approval, not simple acknowledgment. Choose the appropriate Japanese word based on context.
認める (みとめる) is used for admitting facts or mistakes, often with a sense of acceptance. 認識する (にんしきする) is more about cognitive recognition or awareness, and is common in formal discussions.
We need to acknowledge the seriousness of the problem.
I acknowledge your support.
Literally 'to say thanks'. A more casual way to express acknowledgment of someone's help.
I want to acknowledge your help.
A formal expression used in official speeches or written statements to express gratitude.
I would like to express my deep acknowledgment.
He acknowledged me with a nod.
To call out or speak to someone to acknowledge their presence. More casual.
I acknowledged him as I passed by.
To ignore; used in negative form to express acknowledgment. Often used in phrases like '無視できない' (cannot ignore/acknowledge).
This word means 'ignore', so use with care. The negative form implies acknowledgment.
I couldn't not acknowledge his presence.
Please acknowledge receipt of the email.
To confirm or verify. Often used in business contexts to acknowledge orders or requests.
We acknowledge your order.
To issue a receipt, which serves as formal acknowledgment of payment.
We will issue a receipt to acknowledge your payment.
論文の最後に謝辞を書いた。
I wrote the acknowledgments at the end of my thesis.
To express acknowledgments. Used in formal speeches or writing.
I would like to acknowledge many people.