Translation guide
The English verb 'broach' means to bring up a sensitive or difficult topic for discussion. This guide covers natural Japanese ways to express this idea, from formal to casual.
To start talking about a subject that is difficult, embarrassing, or likely to cause disagreement.
The most direct equivalent. It means to broach a topic, often one that is hard to say. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
To bring up a topic in a cautious or indirect way, testing the reaction.
Means to hint at something or mention it indirectly. Useful when you want to broach a subject without being direct.
The English verb 'broach' does not have a single exact Japanese equivalent. Using a dictionary form like 'ブローチする' is not natural. Instead, use the phrases above depending on the context.
切り出す emphasizes the act of starting to speak about a difficult topic, often with hesitation. 話を持ち出す focuses on introducing a topic into the conversation, which may be sensitive or simply new. 切り出す is more common for personal, emotional topics.
It was difficult to broach the subject with him.
How should I broach this issue?
Literally 'bring out a topic'. It implies introducing a subject into conversation, often one that may be unwelcome or sensitive.
I avoided broaching that topic at the meeting.
A more general phrase meaning 'to make something a topic of conversation'. It can be used for broaching a subject, though it lacks the nuance of difficulty.
She broached the subject of salary.
Literally 'open one's mouth'. It can mean to start speaking about something, often after hesitation. Used when the act of beginning to speak is the focus.
He finally broached the matter.
I tentatively broached the idea of changing jobs with him.
Literally 'say in a roundabout way'. It implies broaching a subject indirectly, often to avoid offense.
She indirectly broached the topic of breaking up.
I broached the subject of the debt with him (it was hard to say).
He brought up the topic of budget cuts at the meeting (introduced it).