Translation guide
The English verb "introduce" covers several distinct actions: presenting people to each other, bringing something new into a situation, and formally presenting a topic or speaker. Japanese uses different verbs and expressions for each meaning.
To present two or more people to each other, telling them each other's names.
The standard verb for introducing people. Can be used in both casual and formal situations.
I'll introduce my friend.
I introduced Mr. Tanaka to Mr. Yamada.
Polite form of 紹介する, used in formal settings or when introducing someone of higher status.
Allow me to introduce our department manager.
To bring something new into a place, system, or group for the first time.
Used for introducing new systems, technologies, methods, or products. Common in business and technical contexts.
We introduced a new system.
This company actively introduces the latest technology.
To adopt or incorporate something new, often ideas, trends, or methods. Slightly less formal than .
To bring something (physical or abstract) into a place or situation, often with a nuance of introducing something from outside.
To formally present a subject for discussion or a person who will speak.
Also used for introducing a speaker or topic, though it can feel slightly informal for very formal presentations.
I will introduce the next speaker.
Very polite form used in formal ceremonies or business settings to introduce a speaker or topic.
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion, often in a conversation.
While 紹介する is the go-to verb for introducing people, it is not used for introducing new systems, products, or ideas. Use 導入する or 取り入れる instead.
Introduce new rules.
Introduce new rules. (incorrect, sounds like you are presenting the rules to someone)
導入する is more formal and often used for institutional or large-scale introductions (systems, policies). 取り入れる is more flexible and can be used for adopting ideas, trends, or methods into one's own practice.
We introduced a new design.
彼は会社に新しい文化を持ち込んだ。
He introduced a new culture to the company.
Allow me to introduce today's lecturer.
He introduced a new topic at the meeting.