書状(しょじょう)

しょじょう
noun
letter; written document; missive
formalcommunication
1. letter; written document; formal written communication
A formal or official written communication, especially a letter. Often used in historical or formal contexts, as well as in legal and diplomatic settings.
抗議(こうぎ)の書状(しょじょう)を送(おく)る。
To send a letter of protest.
大統領(だいとうりょう)から書状(しょじょう)が届(とど)いた。
A letter arrived from the president.
博物館(はくぶつかん)に戦国時代(せんごくじだい)の武将(ぶしょう)が書(か)いた書状(しょじょう)が展示(てんじ)されている。
A letter written by a warlord from the Sengoku period is on display at the museum.

Composed of 書(しょ) (writing, document) + 状(じょう) (form, letter). A formal word for written correspondence, contrasting with the everyday word 手紙(てがみ).

Common collocations

Similar words

  • 手紙(てがみ): letter — the everyday word for a letter; informal and neutral
  • 書簡(しょかん): correspondence, letter — equally formal; used in literary and academic contexts
  • 文書(ぶんしょ): document, written text — broader; covers official documents, not just letters
  • 親書(しんしょ): personal letter (from a head of state) — specifically a diplomatic letter between leaders

Usage

Most commonly encountered in historical, legal, and diplomatic contexts. In everyday life, 手紙(てがみ) is the normal word for a letter. 書状(しょじょう) adds formality and gravity, suggesting an important or official communication.

Related Words

Compare: 手紙(てがみ) (letter)
Compare: 書簡(しょかん) (correspondence, letter)
Compare: 文書(ぶんしょ) (document, written text)
general
Added 2026.3.28 23:22 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
20000/20146_shojou