Translation guide
The English verb 'designate' has several core meanings: to officially assign a role or status, to indicate or specify something, and to appoint someone to a position. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for each use.
To formally give a particular status, title, or name to someone or something, often by an authority.
The most common and versatile equivalent. Used for designating a time, place, person, or thing for a specific purpose or status.
この部屋は禁煙に指定されています。
This room has been designated as non-smoking.
彼は後継者に指定された。
He was designated as the successor.
Often used for designating a person by name, especially for a role, task, or nomination.
彼が次の議長に指名された。
He was designated as the next chairperson.
More formal, often used in legal or official contexts to establish or prescribe rules, standards, or designations.
法律で指定された地域を定める。
The law designates the specified areas.
To clearly show, mark, or refer to something, often by pointing, labeling, or describing.
General verb for indicating, showing, or pointing out. Works well when 'designate' means to make something clear or known.
矢印が出口を示している。
The arrow designates the exit.
Emphasizes physically pointing or indicating. Slightly more literal than 示す.
Means to clearly specify or state explicitly. Used in formal or technical contexts.
契約書に条件を明示する必要がある。
The conditions must be designated in the contract.
To officially choose someone for a job, duty, or function.
The standard term for appointing someone to an official position or role.
彼女は新しい部長に任命された。
She was designated as the new department head.
Also used for designating a person for a role, often by name. Overlaps with 任命する but can be less formal.
社長が後任を指名した。
The president designated a successor.
指定する is for designating things (places, times, objects) or statuses. 指名する is for designating a person by name, often for a task or nomination. 任命する is specifically for appointing someone to an official position.
The English word 'designate' is not used as a loanword in Japanese. Always use the appropriate Japanese verb.
地図で場所を指し示してください。
Please designate the location on the map.