正式

• Reading: せいしき
• Romaji: seishiki
• Kanji breakdown: 正 (sei/shou/tada) — correct, proper; 式 (shiki) — style, ceremony, formula
• Pronunciation: /seː.ɕi.ki/

Meaning

Formal; official; proper; legitimate. Describes something that follows established rules or protocols.

A na-adjective that also functions as a noun. Takes な before nouns (正式な書類 = official document) and に before verbs (正式に発表する = to officially announce). Used in business, legal, and ceremonial contexts. Implies that proper procedures have been followed.

Examples

1. 来月、正式な契約を結ぶ予定です。 We plan to sign the formal contract next month.
2. まだ正式に決まっていません。 It hasn't been officially decided yet.
3. 正式な招待状が届きました。 An official invitation arrived.

Usage Guide

Context: business, legal, ceremonies

Tone: formal

Origin & History

Compound of 正 (sei, correct/proper) and 式 (shiki, style/ceremony/formula). Together they mean the correct form — following proper procedure or protocol.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Business/Formal