Translation guide
The English word "compromise" covers several distinct ideas: reaching a mutual agreement through concessions, weakening one's principles, and exposing something to risk. This guide breaks down these meanings and shows how to express them naturally in Japanese.
Reaching an agreement where both sides give up something
The most direct equivalent for mutual compromise. Used as a noun or with to mean 'to compromise'. Often implies a pragmatic settlement.
Both parties compromised on the price.
Let's look for a compromise plan.
Refers to reaching a mutual understanding or compromise, often in relationships or negotiations. Commonly used in 折り合いをつける (to reach a compromise).
They reached a compromise and solved the problem.
Literally 'walking toward each other', meaning mutual concession or meeting halfway. Often used in diplomatic or business contexts.
A willingness to compromise is important.
Concession, giving in. Often used when one side yields. Can be part of a compromise but emphasizes the act of conceding.
He compromised and accepted the conditions.
Weakening or abandoning one's standards, values, or safety
Also used for compromising principles. Often carries a negative nuance of selling out.
He compromised his beliefs.
Literally 'to bend one's beliefs', meaning to compromise one's principles.
A more literary expression meaning to compromise one's integrity or principles.
Putting something at risk, such as security, health, or reputation
To endanger or jeopardize. Used for compromising safety, security, or position.
That action compromises national security.
To damage, harm, or impair. Used when compromising quality, reputation, or health.
To expose to danger. Stronger than 危うくする, often used for physical safety.
The agreement or settlement reached
While 妥協 can mean 'compromise' in the sense of conceding, it does not mean 'to endanger'. For that meaning, use 危うくする or 損なう.
妥協 implies mutual concession, while 譲歩 emphasizes one-sided yielding. In many contexts, 妥協 is the safer choice for 'compromise'.
He didn't compromise his principles.
He didn't want to succeed by compromising his principles.
品質を損なうことなくコストを削減する。
Reduce costs without compromising quality.
The data leak compromised many people's safety.
A compromise plan was adopted.