When diplomatic issues arise, news articles often report on the “大使の召喚” or “大使の召還”. Which is correct?
Both are possible depending on the country the ambassador serves.
If Country A thinks that Country B has done something bad to them, A can:
- summon (召喚) B’s ambassador to A to demand an explanation, or
- recall (召還) A’s ambassador from B as a sign of protest.
Adding to the confusion, 招喚 (invite) and 償還 (redeem) also have related meanings.
Even native Japanese speakers sometimes get this distinction wrong. If you suspect misuse during the translation of a Japanese text, it may be worthwhile to leave a comment.