Translation and Meaning of: 所定 - shotei

The Japanese word 所定 (しょてい, shotei) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries important nuances in everyday Japan. If you have come across it in documents, notices, or conversations, you know that understanding its meaning and correct usage is essential to avoid confusion. In this article, we will explore everything from the literal translation to the contexts in which it appears most frequently, including memorization tips based on reliable sources.

In addition to uncovering what 所定 really means, let's analyze how the Japanese perceive it in their daily lives. You will discover, for example, why it is common in formal settings and what are the most frequent mistakes made by Japanese students. Get ready for a practical analysis, without unnecessary jargon, focused on what truly matters for those who want to master the language.

Meaning and translation of 所定

Translated directly, 所定 means "predetermined," "established," or "specified." It is used to refer to something that has already been defined previously, such as rules, deadlines, or locations. A classic example is the expression 所定の場所 (shotei no basho), which indicates a "designated location" or "agreed point.".

Unlike words like 決まった (kimatta), which also conveys the idea of something decided, 所定 has a more formal and bureaucratic tone. It is often seen in instruction manuals, government forms, or corporate notices. This formality is not accidental – the term reflects the Japanese appreciation for precision and clarity in official contexts.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The etymology of 所定 comes from the combination of two kanjis: 所 (sho), which means "place" or "local," and 定 (tei), which represents "to determine" or "to fix." Together, they create the idea of something that has been established in a certain context. Sources such as the dictionary 漢字源 confirm that this composition emerged during the Edo period, when bureaucratic language began to consolidate in Japan.

An interesting detail is that the kanji 定 appears in other words related to decisions, such as 決定 (kettei, "decision") and 定款 (teikan, "bylaws"). This pattern helps to understand why 所定 carries a connotation so linked to predefined rules and structures. To memorize, it’s worth associating the radical 宀 (roof) in 定 with the idea of something "covered" or "protected" by a determination.

Practical use and common contexts

In contemporary Japan, 所定 frequently appears in three main scenarios: legal documents, workplaces, and public instructions. Phrases like 所定の用紙をご記入ください (Please fill out the designated form) are common in offices. Companies also use the term to refer to established hours, such as in 所定の労働時間 (fixed working hours).

Outside of the bureaucratic environment, it is rare to hear 所定 in informal conversations. Students should pay attention to this detail: replacing it with 決まった may sound more natural in everyday dialogues. An exception is public announcements, such as those at train stations, where expressions like 所定の位置 (designated position) maintain a formal tone even outside of written contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 定められた (sadamerareta) - Established, determined
• 決まった (kimatta) - Decided, settled
• 指定された (shitei sareta) - Designated, assigned

所定

Romaji: shotei
Kana: しょてい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: fixed; prescribed

Meaning in English: fixed;prescribed

Definition: Predetermined: A set or predetermined location or time.

Example Sentences - (所定) shotei

See below some example sentences:

所定の時間に会議を開始します。

Shotei no jikan ni kaigi o kaishi shimasu

Let's start the meeting at the designated time.

We will start the meeting at the prescribed time.

• 所定の時間 (shotei no jikan) - designated time
• に (ni) - particle indicating time
• 会議 (kaigi) - meeting
• を (wo) - particle indicating direct object
• 開始します (kaishi shimasu) - start