Translation guide
The English phrase "initial charge" can refer to several distinct concepts: a one-time setup fee when starting a service, the first charging of a battery or device, or an upfront cost in a financial context. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
initial charge (setup fee)
initial charge (battery)
initial charge (down payment)
The fee paid when starting a contract for utilities, phone, internet, or membership.
The initial charge for the internet service is 5,000 yen. · Are there any initial charges when opening a bank account?
General term for initial costs, including setup fees, deposits, and other one-time charges when starting a service.
The initial costs for this apartment are high.
Specifically refers to a contract handling fee, often part of the initial charge when signing up for a service.
Registration fee, common for memberships or online services.
Admission fee, typically for clubs, schools, or professional associations. Not used for utilities.
The process of charging a new battery or device for the first time before use.
The manual says to do an initial charge for 12 hours. · Don't forget the initial charge before using the new headphones.
An initial payment or investment required at the start of a financial arrangement, such as a loan, lease, or investment.
The initial charge for the lease is three months' rent. · We need to cover the initial charge before the project starts.
Down payment, often used for large purchases like cars or houses. It is an upfront portion of the total cost.
When buying the car, I paid a larger initial charge (down payment).
Initial investment, used in business or personal finance for the money needed to start a project or investment.
Advance payment, sometimes used as an initial charge in contracts, but less common than 頭金 or 初期投資.
The direct translation 'イニシャルチャージ' is sometimes used in Japanese, but it is not natural for most contexts. It may be understood in technical or financial jargon, but using the appropriate Japanese term is strongly recommended.
初期費用 is a broad term for any initial costs, including fees, deposits, and setup charges. 頭金 specifically refers to a down payment on a large purchase like a house or car, and is part of the total price, not an additional fee.
How much is the contract handling fee for the mobile phone?
The gym's registration fee is free during the campaign.
This golf club requires an admission fee of one million yen.
How long is the initial charge needed?
The initial investment for this business is 5 million yen.
An advance payment of 20,000 yen is required as an initial charge.