What is 通帳?
通帳 (つうちょう) is a bankbook used in Japan to record deposits, withdrawals, and balances for a bank account. It is a physical booklet that customers bring to the bank or ATM to update their transaction history.
Usage and Context
This word is commonly used in everyday banking situations. When opening a bank account, you receive a 通帳. You also use it to check your balance or transaction history at the bank or ATM. It is a formal and standard term used in financial contexts.
Common Collocations
- 通帳を作る: to make/open a bankbook (when opening a new account)
- 通帳に記入する: to record transactions in the bankbook
- 通帳を忘れる: to forget the bankbook
Tips for Learners
Remember that 通帳 refers specifically to the physical bankbook, not the bank account itself. Sometimes learners confuse 通帳 with 口座 (こうざ), which means "bank account." Also, in modern times, many banks offer passbook-less accounts, but 通帳 is still widely used and understood.
Using 通帳 correctly will help you navigate banking conversations and transactions smoothly in Japan.