法人
A legal entity or organization, such as a company or non-profit, that is recognized by law as having rights and duties similar to those of a person. It distinguishes a group or institution from an individual human being in legal and business matters.
Examples
3 of 5この法人は地元の公園を掃除しています。
This legal entity cleans the local park.
当法人は、地域社会の発展に寄与することを目的としております。
Our corporation aims to contribute to the development of the local community.
あの法人、実はボランティア団体なんだよ。
That legal entity is actually a volunteer group, you know.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the kanji: 法 (Law) + 人 (Person). It is a 'Person' created and recognized by the 'Law'.
Quick Quiz
来月、私たちのグループを（ ）化することにしました。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 法人
Examples
この法人は地元の公園を掃除しています。
everydayThis legal entity cleans the local park.
当法人は、地域社会の発展に寄与することを目的としております。
formalOur corporation aims to contribute to the development of the local community.
あの法人、実はボランティア団体なんだよ。
informalThat legal entity is actually a volunteer group, you know.
法人の法的責任についての研究を行う。
academicConduct research on the legal responsibility of corporations.
新しい法人を設立するための手続きが必要です。
businessProcedures are necessary to establish a new legal entity.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
公益法人
public interest corporation
法人契約
corporate contract
学校法人
educational corporation
Often Confused With
Kojin refers to an individual human being, whereas Hojin refers to a legal entity like a company.
Kaisha specifically means a 'company' for profit, while Hojin is a broader legal term covering non-profits, schools, and shrines too.
Usage Notes
This word is primarily used in legal, administrative, or formal business contexts. In daily conversation, people usually say 'Kaisha' (company) or 'Dantai' (group) instead.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use Hojin when they just mean a 'company' in a casual conversation. Use 'Kaisha' unless you are discussing legal status or official documents.
Memory Tip
Think of the kanji: 法 (Law) + 人 (Person). It is a 'Person' created and recognized by the 'Law'.
Word Origin
A Japanese translation of the Western legal concept of a 'juridical person' or 'legal entity'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Japan, various organizations like shrines, temples, and private schools must be registered as specific types of 'Hojin' (e.g., Shukyo Hojin or Gakko Hojin) to receive tax benefits and legal recognition.
Quick Quiz
来月、私たちのグループを（ ）化することにしました。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 法人
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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