1.
registered mail
A postal service in which the item is tracked and recorded at each stage of delivery, providing proof that it was sent and received. Offers compensation if the item is lost or damaged.
大切な書類は書留郵便で送ろう。
Let's send the important documents by registered mail.
書留郵便は窓口でしか差し出せない。
Registered mail can only be posted at the counter.
合格通知が書留郵便で届いたので、受け取りにサインをした。
The acceptance notice arrived by registered mail, so I signed for it.
A compound of 書留 (registered, recorded) and 郵便 (mail). Often shortened to just 書留 in everyday conversation.
TYPES:
- 一般書留 — general registered mail (full tracking, higher compensation)
- 簡易書留 — simplified registered mail (basic tracking, lower cost and compensation)
- 現金書留 — cash registered mail (for sending money in a special envelope)
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 書留郵便で送る — to send by registered mail
- 書留郵便を受け取る — to receive registered mail
- 書留郵便の追跡 — tracking of registered mail
RELATED TERMS:
- 普通郵便 — regular mail (no tracking or compensation)
- 速達 — express delivery
- 配達証明 — delivery certification (an add-on service proving delivery)
- 内容証明 — certified content mail (certifies the content of the letter)
PRACTICAL NOTE:
Registered mail in Japan requires the sender to go to a post office counter; it cannot be dropped in a mailbox. The recipient must sign or stamp (印鑑 or signature) upon delivery. It is commonly used for sending important documents, certificates, and valuables.