Translation guide
A signet is a small seal, typically set in a ring, used to authenticate documents. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through words for seal, stamp, or signet ring, with important cultural distinctions between personal seals (hanko/inkan) and registered official seals (jitsuin).
The most common Japanese equivalent for a small seal used in daily life, similar to a signet in function but culturally distinct.
The everyday word for a personal seal or stamp. Used for informal documents, receiving packages, etc. Not typically worn as a ring.
ここに判子を押してください。
Please stamp your seal here.
A more formal term for a seal, often used for official or registered seals. Can also refer to the seal impression.
印鑑をお持ちですか。
Do you have your seal?
A general, somewhat formal term for a seal or stamp. Used in official contexts or when discussing seals as objects.
この印章は江戸時代のものです。
This seal is from the Edo period.
A ring with a seal or engraved design, often used historically in the West for sealing wax. In modern Japanese, this is usually described rather than having a single native word.
A direct loanword combination meaning 'seal ring'. Understandable but not traditional.
彼は印鑑リングをはめている。
He is wearing a signet ring.
Another combination using the more formal 'inshou'. Less common.
その印章リングには家紋が彫られている。
The signet ring is engraved with a family crest.
Descriptive phrase: 'ring-shaped seal'. Used when clarity is needed.
指輪型の印鑑は欧米でよく使われていた。
Signet rings were often used in the West.
A seal registered with the government for legal documents, similar to a notary seal. This is a specific, important concept in Japan.
The official registered seal used for contracts, buying property, etc. It has legal weight.
実印を押す前に内容をよく確認してください。
Please check the contents carefully before stamping your registered seal.
An unregistered personal seal used for everyday purposes, contrasted with jitsuin.
The mark left by a seal, often red, used in place of a signature.
The impression or image of a seal. Used in formal contexts.
印影が鮮明ではありません。
The seal impression is not clear.
The act of stamping or the stamped seal itself. Often used in instructions.
判子 (hanko) is the most common, casual term for a personal seal. 印鑑 (inkan) is more formal and often refers to the registered seal or the impression. 印章 (inshou) is a general, somewhat technical term for any seal or stamp.
In Japan, seals (hanko/inkan) are used instead of signatures for many official documents. A signet ring is not a traditional Japanese item, so direct translations may require explanation.
彼は小指に金の印鑑リングをはめていた。
He wore a gold signet ring on his little finger.
その手紙は印章で封がされていた。
The letter was sealed with a signet.
A regular personal seal is sufficient.
こちらに捺印をお願いします。
Please stamp here.