免状
Meanings
1
Refers to a document certifying that someone has been granted a qualification, rank, or permission. Often more document-focused, formal, or traditional than everyday 免許.
I received a certificate from my tea ceremony teacher.
She holds an instructor's license.
2
Used for a diploma or graduation certificate, especially in compounds such as 卒業免状. In modern everyday Japanese, 卒業証書 or 学位記 is often more common depending on the context.
My grandfather's diploma turned up in the closet.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉の免状を取るto obtain a license/certificate for something
It takes many years to obtain a doctor's license.
- 卒業免状を受け取るto receive a graduation diploma
At the end of the ceremony, I received my graduation diploma.
- 免状を持つto hold a license/certificate
He holds a driving license.
- 免状を交付するto issue a license/certificate
The prefecture issued a new teaching certificate.