Translation guide
The English verb "introduce" covers several distinct actions: presenting people to each other, bringing something new into a situation, and formally presenting a topic or speaker. Japanese uses different verbs and expressions for each meaning.
I introduced Mr. Tanaka to Mr. Yamada.
Polite form of 紹介する, used in formal settings or when introducing someone of higher status.
部長をご紹介します。
Allow me to introduce our department manager.
To bring something new into a place, system, or group for the first time.
Used for introducing new systems, technologies, methods, or products. Common in business and technical contexts.
新しいシステムを導入しました。
We introduced a new system.
この会社は最新技術を積極的に導入している。
This company actively introduces the latest technology.
To adopt or incorporate something new, often ideas, trends, or methods. Slightly less formal than 導入する.
To bring something (physical or abstract) into a place or situation, often with a nuance of introducing something from outside.
To formally present a subject for discussion or a person who will speak.
Also used for introducing a speaker or topic, though it can feel slightly informal for very formal presentations.
次のスピーカーを紹介します。
I will introduce the next speaker.
Very polite form used in formal ceremonies or business settings to introduce a speaker or topic.
本日の講師をご紹介いたします。
Allow me to introduce today's lecturer.
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion, often in a conversation.
彼は会議で新しい話題を切り出した。
He introduced a new topic at the meeting.
While 紹介する is the go-to verb for introducing people, it is not used for introducing new systems, products, or ideas. Use 導入する or 取り入れる instead.
新しいルールを導入する。
Introduce new rules.
新しいルールを紹介する。
Introduce new rules. (incorrect, sounds like you are presenting the rules to someone)
導入する is more formal and often used for institutional or large-scale introductions (systems, policies). 取り入れる is more flexible and can be used for adopting ideas, trends, or methods into one's own practice.
新しいデザインを取り入れました。
We introduced a new design.
彼は会社に新しい文化を持ち込んだ。
He introduced a new culture to the company.