Translation guide
A formal or informal written request for someone to attend an event or visit. In Japanese, the phrasing depends on the relationship, formality, and purpose.
A polite, often business or official, written invitation to an event, ceremony, or meeting.
The standard term for a formal written invitation, such as to a wedding, party, or official event.
I received a wedding invitation.
I got an invitation to the party from my company.
Often used for invitations to exhibitions, seminars, or business events. Slightly broader than 招待状, can also mean a notice or guide.
I sent out invitations to the exhibition.
A very formal term for an invitation, often used in diplomatic or official contexts. Rare in everyday use.
An invitation to the banquet arrived from the embassy.
An informal written invitation, like a short note, email, or message to a friend.
A natural way to refer to a casual invitation message. お誘い means invitation, and メッセージ means message.
I got a message from a friend inviting me out for drinks.
Literally 'invitation email'. Used for both formal and informal contexts, but slightly more formal than お誘いのメッセージ.
I got an email from him inviting me to the party.
A letter of invitation required for a visa application, often from a host in Japan.
The official document name for a letter of reason for invitation, used in visa applications. Often accompanied by other documents.
A letter of invitation is required for the visa application.
A formal letter of invitation, often used in business or academic contexts for inviting someone from abroad. Can be used for visa support.
招待状 is specifically an invitation to an event where the recipient is a guest. 案内状 can be an invitation but also a general notice or guide, and is often used for business events like exhibitions or seminars.
Japanese invitation letters follow set phrases and honorific language. For formal invitations, use 敬語 (keigo). Common opening phrases include 拝啓 (haikei) and closing with 敬具 (keigu). For casual invitations, a simple message with 〜ませんか？ or 〜ましょう！ is natural.
I had the university issue a letter of invitation.