朝貢

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 朝貢 is read ちょうこう and refers to the historical practice of presenting tribute to a ruler or power in another country.
• Basic usage: It is used for envoys departing with tribute or for explaining relations between countries through tributary missions.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• The act and the goods
  • 朝貢 names the act of paying tribute, while 貢物(みつぎもの) names the goods presented. 貢物を携えて means carrying those goods.