情報
jōhō[d͡ʑo̞ːho̞ː]
The English phrase information is translated into Japanese as 情報 (jōhō) or 案内. If unsure, use 情報.
Meaning: communicable knowledge (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 情報 | jōhō | [d͡ʑo̞ːho̞ː] (narrow) |
| 案内 | annai | [ã̠nːa̠i] (narrow) |
情報 is the most common and neutral term for information. It is used when referring to abstract information, data or intelligence. Other terms are used for specific types of information: データ is often used in formal contexts for numerical or statistical data, and 資料 is used in formal settings when referring to written or documentary information like reports or reference materials. For public announcements or in friendly discussions, お知らせ is commonly used.
Which one should you use?
Use 情報 for abstract information, data or intelligence. In contrast, use 案内 when the information being provided refers to guidance, directions or assistance, such as at an information desk.
How do you pronounce it?
jōhō
Did you know?
- The term 案内 functions as a verb in restaurants, where it describes the act of a staff member physically leading a guest to their table.
- Japanese has a specific social term 情報弱者 to describe 'information poor' people who lack the digital literacy or access to make a profit.
- In a professional setting, asking for 情報 can sometimes carry the connotation of asking for 'inside intelligence' or secret data rather than just general facts.
Examples in context
- 案内所はどこですか。Where is the information counter?This sentence is useful for locating an information counter using 案内.Tatoeba #191237 by small_snow, translation #28398 by CC
- どんな情報が欲しいの？What information do you want?This sentence is useful for asking about specific 情報.Tatoeba #11949137 by bunbuku, translation #4012063 by CK
- 情報は全て握っている。We have all the information.This sentence is useful for stating that one possesses all the 情報.Tatoeba #11960476 by small_snow, translation #11960466 by zogwarg
- その会社の最新情報を入手しました。I obtained the latest information about that company.
- この資料に詳しい情報が載っています。Detailed information is included in this document.
- 明日のイベントについてのお知らせです。This is an announcement about tomorrow's event.
- 食べ物の評判を聞くのは、地元の人が一番の情報源です。Local people are the best source of information when it comes to food recommendations.
- 95 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hiyori and Kenta are talking about a new restaurant.
- 陽葵 Himari新しい店の情報を知ってる？Atarashii mise no jouhou o shitteru?Do you know any information about the new shop?
- 健太 Kentaいいえ、何も聞いてないよ。Iie, nani mo kiite nai yo.No, I haven't heard anything.
- 陽葵 Himariネットで情報を探してみるね。Netto de jouhou o sagashite miru ne.I will try to look for information online.
- 健太 Kentaいい情報を教えてね。Ii jouhou o oshiete ne.Please tell me if you find any good information.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “information” translations and entries 情報, 案内, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
