Translation guide
The act of buying something, typically in a business or formal context. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 購入 (こうにゅう), but the appropriate term depends on the scale, formality, and nature of the transaction.
To express the act of buying goods, equipment, or services, especially in a business, organizational, or formal context.
The standard noun/する-verb for 'purchase' or 'buying'. Used widely in business, official, and everyday formal contexts. It implies a deliberate transaction, often for goods or assets.
We are considering the purchase of a new computer.
There is a discount for bulk purchasing.
Refers to purchasing as a function or department, often used in business contexts like 'purchasing department' (購買部). It emphasizes the procurement aspect.
Please contact the purchasing department.
Specifically refers to purchasing stock or inventory for a business (e.g., a store buying goods to sell). Not used for personal purchases.
We purchase this product from overseas.
To express the simple act of buying something in daily life, like shopping.
The most common word for 'shopping' or 'purchasing' in daily conversation. It implies going out to buy things, often for personal use.
I'm going shopping today.
The basic verb 'to buy'. Use this for direct, simple statements about purchasing something.
To emphasize the process of obtaining goods or services, often for an organization, with a focus on sourcing and supply.
Means 'procurement' or 'supply'. Used when talking about securing necessary items, materials, or funds, often in a business or logistical context.
Procure the necessary materials.
Means 'acquisition' or 'obtaining'. Often used for acquiring assets, data, or rights, rather than simple goods.
購入 (こうにゅう) is more formal and often used in business or official documents. 買う (かう) is the everyday verb for 'to buy'. Use 購入 when you want to sound professional or are referring to a significant purchase; use 買う in casual conversation.
purchase a car vs. buy a car
English often uses the gerund 'purchasing' in phrases like 'purchasing a ticket'. In Japanese, it's more natural to use the noun form (購入) or the verb (買う) depending on the sentence structure. Avoid directly translating '-ing' forms into awkward noun phrases.
I bought a book yesterday.
Acquiring land costs a lot of money.