Translation guide
Expresses the idea of 'both sides' or 'both people/groups involved' in a situation, agreement, or relationship. Japanese uses different expressions depending on formality and context.
Referring to the two people or groups involved in a mutual arrangement, contract, or interaction.
Neutral, standard term for 'both parties' in formal and informal contexts. Commonly used in legal, business, and everyday situations.
双方の合意が必要です。
Agreement from both parties is necessary.
双方にメリットがある。
There are benefits for both parties.
More formal/literary than 双方. Often used in written contexts like reports or news.
両者の意見を聞いた。
I listened to the opinions of both parties.
Casual, everyday word for 'both'. Can refer to people or things. Less formal than 双方.
両方の言い分を聞こう。
Let's hear both sides of the story.
Emphasizing that each of the two parties does something or is affected.
Means 'each' or 'respectively'. Used to say that both parties do something individually.
それぞれの当事者が責任を負う。
Each party bears responsibility.
Means 'both' or 'either' in the sense of 'both parties are...'. Slightly formal.
いずれの当事者も合意した。
Both parties agreed.
Describing actions or feelings that are reciprocal.
Prefix meaning 'mutual' or 'bilateral'. Used in compounds like 相互理解 (mutual understanding).
相互の信頼が大切だ。
Mutual trust is important.
Everyday word for 'each other' or 'mutual'. Often used in phrases like お互いに (mutually).
双方 is the most common and neutral for 'both parties'. 両者 is more formal and often used in writing. 両方 is casual and can refer to objects as well as people.
In legal or formal contexts, 当事者 (とうじしゃ) specifically means 'the parties concerned'. Combine with 双方 or 両者 for clarity: 双方の当事者 (both parties involved).
お互いの利益のために。
For the benefit of both parties.