調印する

• Reading: ちょういんする
• Romaji: chouin suru
• Kanji breakdown: 調 (chou) — arrange, prepare, investigate; 印 (in) — seal, stamp, mark
• Pronunciation: /tɕoː.iɴ.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To sign; to affix a signature to an official document such as a treaty or contract.

A Group 3 (suru) compound verb combining 調印 (signing/affixing a seal) with する. Used specifically for formal, ceremonial signings of treaties, agreements, and high-level contracts. More official and weighty than 署名する (to sign), implying diplomatic or legal significance. Often appears with 式 as 調印式 (signing ceremony).

Examples

1. 両国は平和条約に調印した。 The two countries signed a peace treaty.
2. 調印式には各国の代表が出席した。 Representatives from each country attended the signing ceremony.
3. 長い交渉の末、ようやく合意書に調印された。 After lengthy negotiations, the agreement was finally signed.

Usage Guide

Context: diplomacy, treaties, legal, ceremonies

Tone: formal

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 調 (chou, to arrange/prepare) + 印 (in, seal/stamp). Literally 'to prepare the seal,' referring to the formal act of affixing an official seal to a document as a mark of agreement.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Official