意思表示

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 意思表示 is read as いしひょうじ and is a noun and する verb for communicating one’s intention or choice through words, writing, or an action.
• Basic usage: Stating whether one will participate appears in 参加するかどうか意思表示する, while indicating refusal appears in 拒否の意思表示をする.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Actions can express intent too
  • It need not be a spoken sentence; a gesture, signature, or other action can clearly communicate intent.
• Difference from 意見
  • Unlike an opinion or judgment about a topic, this term focuses on communicating an intention to choose or act.