Translation guide
A neat, corrected version of a written text, free of errors. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific terms for clean copies, final drafts, and the act of making a fair copy.
The final, error-free version of a handwritten or typed document, often produced after editing a draft.
The most common and direct equivalent. Refers to a clean copy, especially of a handwritten document, calligraphy, or formal letter. Can also be used as a verb (清書する).
The last version of a document before publication or submission, often polished and error-free.
Literally 'final draft'. Used in academic, professional, or publishing contexts for the last version of a text.
論文の最終稿を提出した。
I submitted the final draft (fair copy) of my thesis.
The process of producing a clean version from a draft.
Both mean a clean copy, but 清書 is more common in everyday contexts like schoolwork or personal letters. 浄書 is often used for official documents, calligraphy, or formal manuscripts. In many cases, they are interchangeable, but 清書 is the safer choice for learners.
清書 is often used with verbs like する (to do), 提出する (to submit), or 作る (to make). It can refer to both the process and the resulting document. For digital documents, 清書 is still used, but 最終版 (final version) or 完成版 (completed version) may be more common in some contexts.
レポートの清書を提出した。
I submitted the fair copy of my report.
手紙を清書する。
I make a fair copy of the letter.
Similar to 清書, but often used in more formal or literary contexts, or for official documents. Can imply a neat, finalized version.
契約書の浄書を作成する。
I prepare a fair copy of the contract.
A more general phrase meaning 'to rewrite neatly'. Useful when the concept of a fair copy is not a single noun, but an action.
下書きをきれいに書き直した。
I made a fair copy of the draft.
Means 'completed manuscript'. Emphasizes that the text is finished and ready for printing or submission.
完成原稿を出版社に送った。
I sent the fair copy (completed manuscript) to the publisher.
彼は和歌を書き清めた。
He made a fair copy of the waka poem.