正規

せいき

regular, legitimate

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"正規" (せいき) means "regular," "official," or "legitimate." It is often used to describe something that is formally recognized or authorized, such as employees, licenses, or procedures.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "正規" in workplace or legal contexts, for example, distinguishing between regular (正規) and temporary or contract employees. It also appears when referring to official licenses or formal processes.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 正規の社員 (せいきのしゃいん): regular employee, used to indicate full-time or officially hired staff.
  • 正規のライセンス: legitimate license, emphasizing legal authorization.
  • 正規の手続き: proper procedure, referring to following official steps.

Register and Nuance

"正規" is a formal term and is appropriate in business, legal, and official settings. It implies legitimacy and adherence to rules or standards.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "正規" with "正式" (せいしき), which also means "formal" or "official." While similar, "正規" often emphasizes legitimacy or regular status, especially in employment or licensing, whereas "正式" is broader and used for formal events or announcements. Pay attention to context to choose the correct word.

Example Sentences

かれはせいきのしゃいんとしてかいしゃにつとめている。

He works at the company as a regular employee.

このソフトウェアはせいきのライセンスをもっている。

This software has a legitimate license.

せいきのてつづきをふんでしんせいしてください。

Please apply following the proper procedures.