Translation and Meaning of: 申告 - shinkoku

The Japanese word 申告 [しんこく] is a term that frequently appears in formal contexts, especially related to documents, taxes, and official declarations. If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in Japanese culture, understanding its meaning, usage, and nuances can be very helpful. In this article, we will explore everything from its origin to everyday situations in which this word is used, along with tips for memorizing it efficiently.

While many students associate 申告 with bureaucracy, its meaning goes beyond that. In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you can find not only the translation but also practical examples that show how the Japanese use this word in everyday life. Let's uncover its components, cultural uses, and even how it appears in official materials and in the media.

Meaning and use of 申告

申告 [しんこく] means "declaration" or "formal report," commonly used in situations requiring official communication to authorities or institutions. A classic example is 税務申告 (zeimu shinkoku), which refers to tax declaration. Governments and companies often require citizens or employees to make such records to ensure compliance with the law.

In addition to the fiscal context, the word also appears in other scenarios, such as in 出入国申告 (shutsunyūkoku shinkoku), the declaration made when entering or leaving Japan. Although it is more common in bureaucratic environments, understanding it is essential for anyone living or planning to live in the country, as ignoring a mandatory 申告 may result in penalties.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The etymology of 申告 (shinkoku) comes from the combination of two kanji: 申 (shin), which carries the meaning of "to say" or "to express," and 告 (koku), which means "to announce" or "to inform." Together, they form the idea of formal communication, reinforcing the official character of the word. This construction is not random—it reflects the importance that Japanese culture places on clarity and responsibility in public declarations.

It is worth noting that 申 also appears in words like 申し込み (moushikomi), which means "registration" or "application." On the other hand, 告 is found in terms like 警告 (keikoku), which means "notification" or "alert." Understanding these radicals helps to memorize not only 申告 but also other words that share the same ideograms.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to solidify 申告 is to associate it with concrete situations. For example, think about the act of filling out a tax form or declaring items at customs. Creating flashcards with sentences like "毎年、税金の申告をします" (Every year, I file my tax return) can help internalize the term in a contextualized way.

Another tip is to pay attention to news or official documents in Japanese, where 申告 appears frequently. Government websites and materials for foreigners in Japan often use this word, providing real examples of its application. By becoming familiar with these contexts, it becomes easier to remember not only the meaning but also the importance of 申告 in everyday Japanese life.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 届け出 (todoke) - Formal notification; declaration.
• 告知 (kokuchi) - Notification; warning.
• 申し出 (moushide) - Proposal; suggestion; request.
• 申立て (moi tatete) - Declaration; statement; allegation.
• 申請 (shinsei) - Formal request; order.
• 告訴 (kokuso) - Complaint; formal accusation.
• 申告書 (shinkokusho) - Declaration (usually financial); statement document.

申告

Romaji: shinkoku
Kana: しんこく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: report; declaration; presenting a return; notification

Meaning in English: report;statement;filing a return;notification

Definition: Reportar records, assets, etc. to fiscal inspections and municipalities.

Example Sentences - (申告) shinkoku

See below some example sentences:

税務署に申告書を提出しなければなりません。

Zeimusho ni shinkokusho o teishutsu shinakereba narimasen

You must send an income tax statement to the tax office.

• 税務署 - the responsible body for tax administration in Japan
• に - particle indicating destination or location
• 申告書 - tax declaration
• を - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
• 提出 - presentation or delivery
• しなければなりません - expression that indicates obligation or necessity to do something

申告書を提出してください。

Shinkoku sho wo teishutsu shite kudasai

Please send the declaration form.

Please send a tax return.

• 申告書 - declaration document
• を - object particle
• 提出 - present, deliver
• して - form of the verb suru (to do)
• ください - please do