What does “V-J” stand for in the term “V-J Day,” associated with Japan's 1945 surrender?

“V-J” stands for “Victory over Japan,” the phrase used in Victory over Japan Day.

The expression followed the pattern of V-E Day, which marked Germany's surrender in Europe. Allied governments and newspapers used V-J terminology for the end of the war against Japan, although the exact date associated with the observance varies by country and time zone.

In the United States, President Harry S. Truman announced Japan's surrender on 14 August 1945 Washington time, while the announcement was heard in Japan on 15 August. Britain and several other countries commonly commemorate V-J Day on 15 August. The formal signing of the surrender document took place on 2 September.

The phrase should not be confused with Japan's legal surrender date. V-J Day generally refers to the announcement or celebration of victory, while the Instrument of Surrender provided the formal legal act ending hostilities.