Translation guide
The English verb 'revoke' means to officially cancel or take back something, such as a law, license, permission, or decision. In Japanese, the best translation depends on what is being revoked and the formality of the situation.
To formally withdraw an official document, license, permit, or granted right.
The most common and versatile verb for revoking or canceling something official. Used for licenses, permissions, contracts, and decisions.
My license was revoked.
The government revoked the permit.
A formal term meaning to strip someone of a right, title, or qualification. Often used in legal or disciplinary contexts.
He was disbarred (had his lawyer qualification revoked).
Means to invalidate or nullify something, such as a contract or decision. Slightly less direct than 取り消す but common in legal contexts.
The court revoked (invalidated) the ruling.
To formally abolish or repeal a law, regulation, or official command.
To retract something previously said or offered, often in personal or business contexts.
To remove someone's access rights, such as login credentials or system permissions.
取り消す is the most general and can be used for licenses, statements, and access. 廃止する is specifically for abolishing systems or laws permanently. 撤回する is for withdrawing statements, proposals, or orders, often in formal settings.
revocation of a license
repeal of a law
retraction of a statement
For canceling a reservation, subscription, or event, use キャンセルする or 解約する, not 取り消す. 取り消す implies an official or authoritative revocation, not a simple cancellation by the user.
cancel a reservation
The president revoked the order.
cancel a contract (by the customer)