陳情

• Reading: ちんじょう
• Romaji: chinjō
• Kanji breakdown: 陳 (chin/nobe) — to state, explain, set out; 情 (jō/nasa) — circumstances, feelings, situation
• Pronunciation: /tɕiɴ.dʑoː/

Meaning

Petition; appeal; representation. A formal request or appeal made to a public authority or government official, explaining one's circumstances and asking for action or relief.

Used as both a noun and a する-verb (陳情する). A common form of civic engagement in Japan, where citizens, businesses, or local governments formally present their circumstances and requests to higher authorities. Unlike 請願 (seigan, a formal legal petition), 陳情 is more explanatory and informal in character. Often submitted to local councils, ministries, or elected officials.

Examples

1. 住民たちは道路整備を求めて市長に陳情書を提出した。 Residents submitted a petition to the mayor seeking road improvements.
2. 商工会議所が規制緩和を求める陳情を国会議員に行った。 The chamber of commerce made a representation to members of parliament calling for deregulation.
3. 被災地の自治体が復興支援の拡充を国に陳情した。 Local authorities in the disaster-affected area petitioned the national government for expanded reconstruction support.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, civic engagement, governance, local government

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 陳 (to state, to set out, to explain at length) and 情 (circumstances, feelings, situation). Literally to set out one's circumstances before an authority.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal