精算

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 精算 is read as せいさん and is a noun and する verb for calculating and settling expenses, charges, or an outstanding balance.
• Basic usage: Settling advanced expenses appears in 費用を精算する, while completing a parking payment appears in 駐車料金の精算を済ませる.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Calculation and completion
  • The focus is on calculating actual costs and resolving any amount still owed or left over.
• Homophone 清算
  • 清算 emphasizes winding up accounts, obligations, or a relationship; 精算 suits accurately calculating and settling an amount.