証書

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 証書 is read as しょうしょ and is a noun for a formal document certifying or recording a qualification, fact, right, or agreement.
• Basic usage: A conferred document appears in 証書を受け取る, while a contract document appears in 契約の証書.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Certificate and deed
  • Certificate fits graduation or qualification; deed or formal document may fit a contract or recorded right.
• Difference from 証明書
  • 証明書 broadly certifies a fact, while 証書 readily denotes a formally conferred or executed document.