Translation guide
Money paid to show serious intent in a transaction, especially in real estate or contracts. In Japanese contexts, this is most commonly 手付金 (tetsukekin), but other terms exist depending on the situation.
A sum paid by a buyer to a seller to secure a transaction and demonstrate commitment, often applied toward the purchase price.
The standard legal and business term for earnest money in Japan, used in real estate and other sales contracts.
I paid earnest money at the time of contract.
The earnest money will be applied as part of the purchase price.
A shorter, slightly less formal version of 手付金, commonly used in everyday conversation about deposits.
The contract won't be finalized unless you pay the deposit.
A formal term for earnest money or application deposit, often seen in official documents or auction contexts.
A bid deposit is required for the tender.
Any money given in advance to demonstrate serious intent, not necessarily in a formal sales contract.
A partial payment or deposit made in advance, often used for reservations or orders. It implies a commitment but is less formal than 手付金.
Please pay a deposit when making a reservation.
Advance payment or deposit, often used in contexts like event bookings or custom orders. It can sometimes mean full prepayment.
手付金 is specifically earnest money in a legal contract, often with cancellation penalties. 内金 is a partial payment or deposit for goods/services, less formal. 前金 is advance payment, which may be full or partial, and is common in everyday transactions.
The phrase 'earnest money' has no direct casual equivalent. Avoid literal translations like 真面目なお金. Use the appropriate term based on context.
前金で半額を支払った。
I paid half as a deposit in advance.