1.
written invitation; invitation card
A formal written invitation to an event such as a wedding, party, ceremony, or exhibition. Typically a printed or handwritten card sent by mail.
結婚式の招待状が届いた。
A wedding invitation arrived.
招待状の返事は早めに出しましょう。
Let's reply to the invitation promptly.
招待状には会場の地図と出欠の返信はがきが同封されていた。
Enclosed with the invitation were a map to the venue and a reply postcard for RSVP.
USAGE: 招待状 refers to the physical written invitation. The act of inviting is 招待する.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 招待状を送る (to send an invitation)
- 招待状が届く (an invitation arrives)
- 招待状を受け取る (to receive an invitation)
- 招待状の返信 (reply to an invitation)
In Japanese wedding etiquette, the reply postcard (返信はがき) included with the 招待状 follows specific formatting conventions, such as crossing out the honorific 御 before your own name and adding 寿 decorations.