Translation guide
The concept of approval in Japanese is expressed through various words and phrases depending on context: formal permission, personal endorsement, social acceptance, or official authorization. The most common and versatile term is 承認 (shōnin), but other options like 賛成 (sansei) for agreement, 許可 (kyoka) for permission, and 認可 (ninka) for official approval are used in specific situations.
To express that something has been formally accepted or authorized by an authority, organization, or system.
The most general and widely used term for formal approval, acceptance, or recognition. Used in business, legal, and administrative contexts.
The application was approved.
Official approval or authorization, typically from a government agency or regulatory body. More formal than 承認 and implies legal permission.
Permission or approval, often used when someone in authority allows an action. Can be used in both formal and everyday contexts.
To show that you agree with or support a proposal, suggestion, or course of action.
To express that someone or something is well-regarded or accepted by a group or society.
Support or approval from the public or a group. Often used in political or social contexts.
To ask for someone's approval or go-ahead before doing something.
To obtain permission/approval from someone. A standard phrase in both formal and informal settings.
To verbally or non-verbally show that you approve of someone's actions or achievements.
To praise or compliment. The most common way to express approval of someone's effort or result.
承認 (shōnin) is the most general term for approval, often used in business for approving documents, plans, or requests. 許可 (kyoka) is permission, typically from a person in authority, and can be used in daily life (e.g., parental permission). 認可 (ninka) is official authorization by a government or regulatory body, and is more formal and legalistic.
In casual conversation, directly translating 'approval' as 承認 or 賛成 can sound stiff. Instead, use phrases like いいね (ii ne) or それでいいよ (sore de ii yo) to express casual approval.
I need your approval on this document.
You need to get your boss's approval.
The manufacture of the new drug was approved.
You need permission to take photos here.
Agreement or approval of an idea or plan. Commonly used in discussions, meetings, and voting.
I approve of that proposal. / I agree with that proposal.
Those in favor, please raise your hands.
Consent or agreement, often implying a meeting of minds. Slightly more formal than 賛成 and used in legal or contractual contexts as well.
He agreed with my opinion.
Casual expression of approval, similar to 'sounds good' or 'like' on social media. Very common in informal conversation.
Want to go to a movie tomorrow? Sounds good!
その政策は国民の支持を得ている。
The policy has the approval of the people.
Reputation or public estimation. When used positively, it implies approval or popularity.
That restaurant has a good reputation (is well-approved of).
Acceptance or reception, often used for ideas, cultures, or new concepts. Implies approval through adoption.
The new system was quickly accepted (approved) by the employees.
Please start after getting the manager's approval.
To seek approval, often in formal or business contexts. Implies a request for official sign-off.
We must seek the board's approval.
The teacher praised the student's work.
Well done! A direct, informal expression of approval for a job well done.
I heard you passed the exam? Well done!
Do you approve of the plan?
The project got the green light.