指定席

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 指定席 is read as していせき and is a noun for a seat whose location or number is assigned on a ticket or reservation.
• Basic usage: Use 指定席を予約する when booking one and 指定席の番号 for the assigned number shown on the ticket.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Assignment, not mere preference
  • A desired seat is not automatically a 指定席; the seat must be formally assigned through the ticket or reservation.
• Contrast with 自由席
  • 自由席 lets passengers choose an available seat within the unreserved area, whereas 指定席 is allocated in advance.