申し込む

• Reading: もうしこむ
• Romaji: moushikomu
• Kanji breakdown: 申 (mō/mōshi) — say, speak (humble); 込 (ko) — put into, crowded
• Pronunciation: /mo.ɯ.ɕi.ko.mɯ/

Meaning

To apply for; to make an application. To formally request or sign up for something.

A Group 1 (godan) verb with む ending. Conjugates as 申し込まない (negative), 申し込みます (polite). The noun form 申し込み (application) is equally common. Used for formal applications, reservations, subscriptions, and registrations. More formal than simply asking.

Examples

1. 日本語のクラスに申し込みました。 I applied for a Japanese class.
2. コンサートのチケットをインターネットで申し込んだ。 I applied for concert tickets online.
3. 来月のマラソン大会に申し込むつもりです。 I plan to sign up for next month's marathon.

Usage Guide

Context: administrative, events, services

Tone: formal

Origin & History

Compound verb from 申す (mōsu, humble form of say/tell) and 込む (komu, to put into). Literally means to put forward a statement — to submit a formal request.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal