証明

• Reading: しょうめい
• Romaji: shoumei
• Kanji breakdown: 証 (shou) — evidence, proof, certificate; 明 (mei) — bright, clear
• Pronunciation: /ɕoː.meː/

Meaning

Proof; verification; demonstration; certification. The act of establishing the truth of something.

Used both as a noun and as a する-verb (証明する). In scientific contexts it means to prove or verify, while in everyday life it often relates to official certification such as 身分証明書 (identification document). A versatile word spanning academic, legal, and daily-life usage.

Examples

1. 科学者がその理論を証明した。 The scientist proved the theory.
2. パスポートは身分を証明するものです。 A passport is used to verify your identity.
3. 彼の無実を証明する証拠が見つかった。 Evidence proving his innocence was found.

Usage Guide

Context: science, law, official documents

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 証 (evidence, proof, certificate) and 明 (bright, clear). Together they convey making something clearly evident.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal