evidence, proof, certificate
証 centers on making something certain or official: providing evidence, proving a fact, or issuing a certificate that confirms something is true.
証 is the modern simplified form of 證. The older form combines 言 (words) with 登, which likely contributed the sound and the idea of verifying or attesting. The modern 正 component is a simplification that still suggests correctness.
Words 言 that are correct 正 serve as evidence or proof. Imagine a certificate with correct words stamped on it.
For ショウ, picture a show of evidence in court: show -> ショウ, and the correct words prove the case.
proof; testimony; demonstration; verification; certification
evidence; proof
guarantee; security; assurance; pledge
proof; evidence; sign; testimony; testament (to something); vindication
verification; inspection
testimony; (verbal) evidence
certification; attestation; authentication; confirmation
bond; bill; certificate; security
demonstration; verification; substantiation; actual proof
witness
establishing proof; demonstration; substantiation
document (of proof); certificate; paper; bond; deed
proof to the contrary; disproof; counter-evidence; rebuttal; refutation
investigation into historical evidence; study of historical artifacts
false evidence; perjury; false testimony
physical evidence; real evidence; material evidence
visa
guarantor; surety; sponsor; reference; bondsman
guaranteed; certified; warranty included
deposit (esp. on renting a house); security money; bond payment; guarantee
licence; license; permit; certificate (of qualification)
marketable securities; stocks and bonds
Tokyo Stock Exchange; TSE
certificate; credentials; testimonial