礼状(れいじょう)

れいじょう
noun
thank-you letter; letter of thanks
1. thank-you letter; letter of thanks
A formal written expression of gratitude, typically sent after receiving a gift, attending an event, or being helped. An important part of Japanese social etiquette.
お中元(ちゅうげん)の礼状(れいじょう)を書(か)いた。
I wrote a thank-you letter for the mid-year gift.
面接(めんせつ)の後(あと)、礼状(れいじょう)を送(おく)るのがマナーだ。
It is good manners to send a thank-you letter after an interview.
贈(おく)り物(もの)が届(とど)いたら、できるだけ早(はや)く礼状(れいじょう)を出(だ)すようにしている。
When I receive a gift, I try to send a thank-you letter as soon as possible.

USAGE: Sending a 礼状(れいじょう) is an important part of Japanese social customs. Common occasions include receiving seasonal gifts (お中元(ちゅうげん), お歳暮(せいぼ)), attending weddings, after job interviews, and after receiving hospitality.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 礼状(れいじょう)を書(か)く: to write a thank-you letter
  • 礼状(れいじょう)を送(おく)る / 出(だ)す: to send a thank-you letter
  • お礼(れい)の手紙(てがみ): thank-you letter (more casual phrasing)

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 礼状(れいじょう): formal thank-you letter
  • 挨拶状(あいさつじょう): greeting card/letter (broader, includes seasonal greetings)
  • 年賀状(ねんがじょう): New Year's card (specific type of seasonal letter)
general
Added 2026.3.6 20:49
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