Translation guide
The English word "signature" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: a handwritten name, a distinctive mark or characteristic, and the act of signing. It also touches on related concepts like autographs and digital signatures.
Your name written by hand, often in a stylized way, to endorse a document or identify yourself.
The standard word for a signature on a document, contract, or petition. It refers to the act of writing your name or the written name itself.
Please sign here.
Sign a contract.
A loanword from English, commonly used for signatures, especially in casual contexts or for autographs. Can also mean a sign or signal.
Please sign here.
I got a celebrity's autograph.
Refers specifically to signing one's own name, often used in formal or legal contexts to emphasize that the signature is handwritten by the person themselves.
The person's own signature is required.
Something that makes a person, thing, or place easily recognizable or unique.
A general word for a distinguishing feature or characteristic. Not limited to signatures, but often used in phrases like "signature style."
The signature of his cooking is the use of fresh ingredients.
Literally "pronoun," but used to mean something that is synonymous with a person or thing; their defining feature. Often used in the phrase "～の代名詞".
The action of writing your signature, especially to approve or endorse something.
As a noun or verb (する), it refers to the act of signing. This is the most direct equivalent.
Participate in a signature campaign.
Also used for the act of signing, especially in casual or entertainment contexts.
Specifically refers to affixing a seal (hanko) instead of a handwritten signature. In Japan, official documents often require a seal rather than a signature.
Not a direct translation of "signature," but culturally equivalent in many formal situations.
A famous person's signature given to a fan.
The most common word for an autograph. Often used with もらう (to receive) or 書く (to write).
Can I have your autograph?
Refers to something handwritten by the person themselves, often used for autographs or manuscripts. Emphasizes authenticity.
An electronic, encrypted mark used to authenticate digital documents or messages.
署名 is the formal word for a signature on documents, while サイン is a casual loanword often used for autographs or informal signing. In business settings, 署名 is preferred. サイン can also mean a sign or signal, so context is important.
In Japan, personal seals (印鑑 or はんこ) are often used instead of handwritten signatures for official documents. While signatures are becoming more common, especially in international contexts, you may encounter situations where a seal is required. The act of affixing a seal is 捺印 (なついん).
Please put your signature here.
The chef's signature dish is pasta.
Uses 代表料理 (representative dish) to convey "signature dish."
I need your signature on this form.
Literally "trademark," but used figuratively for a personal signature trait or gimmick, like a comedian's catchphrase or a person's habitual gesture.
His signature is his red hat.
Mt. Fuji is synonymous with Japan (a signature of Japan).
Sign autographs for fans.
Affix a seal to the contract.
作家の直筆サイン入りの本。
A book with the author's handwritten signature.
A direct loan translation, also used but less common than 電子署名.
Verification of a digital signature.