Learning how to say “invoice” in Japanese can be quite useful, especially if you are dealing with business transactions or working in Japan. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various ways to express “invoice” in both formal and informal contexts. While regional variations will be mentioned if necessary, our focus will primarily be on standard Japanese. Let’s dive in and discover how to say “invoice” in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When it comes to formal situations, such as official business communications or professional settings, it’s important to use appropriate language. Here are some formal ways to say “invoice” in Japanese:
1. 請求書 (せいきゅうしょ, seikyūsho)
The most common and widely used term for “invoice” is 請求書 (seikyūsho). It is suitable for both written and spoken formal situations. This word can be broken down as follows:
請求 (せいきゅう, seikyū) – which means “claim” or “request”
書 (しょ, sho) – which means “document” or “letter”
Together, these kanji (Chinese characters) form the word “invoice” in Japanese. Let’s look at an example sentence:
私たちは、請求書を提出する必要があります。
(Watashitachi wa, seikyūsho o teishutsu suru hitsuyō ga arimasu.)
We need to submit an invoice.
2. 請求明細書 (せいきゅうめいさいしょ, seikyū meisai sho)
Another formal term for “invoice” is 請求明細書 (seikyū meisai sho). It translates more specifically as “invoice statement” or “itemized invoice.” This expression emphasizes the detailed breakdown of the charges.
請求明細 (せいきゅうめいさい, seikyū meisai) – which means “invoice details” or “invoice breakdown”
書 (しょ, sho) – meaning “document” or “letter”
Here’s an example sentence:
お支払いは請求明細書に基づいてお願いいたします。
(Oshiharai wa seikyū meisai sho ni motodzuite onegai itashimasu.)
Please make the payment based on the invoice.
Informal Expressions
In informal situations or casual conversations, you may come across alternative expressions for “invoice.” While it is generally best to use the formal terms mentioned above in business settings, here are a couple of informal alternatives you might encounter:
1. バイ (bai)
In some informal contexts, especially among younger generations or in casual conversations, a loanword from English, “bai” is used to refer to an “invoice.” For instance:
このバイ、払った？
(Kono bai, huttta?)
Did you pay this invoice?
2. 請求 (せいきゅう, seikyū)
While 請求 (seikyū) is the formal term for “claim” or “request,” it can also be used informally to refer to an invoice. This usage is more prevalent in certain regions or casual conversations:
昨日、請求がきたよ。
(Kinō, seikyū ga kita yo.)
I got the invoice yesterday.
Summary and Regional Variations
To summarize, 請求書 (seikyūsho) is the standard and formal term used to convey “invoice” in Japanese. It is advisable to use this expression in business and official contexts. However, in informal situations or specific regional variations, alternatives such as バイ (bai) or informal usage of 請求 (seikyū) can also be encountered.
Remember, it is always important to adapt your language use to the appropriate context and pay attention to formalities when in professional settings. With this guide, you now have the knowledge to confidently express “invoice” in Japanese, whether formally or informally.
Keep practicing and embracing the Japanese language!
