Translation guide
The English word 'conversation' covers a range of Japanese expressions depending on formality, setting, and whether it's a casual chat or a formal discussion. This guide helps learners choose the most natural term.
To refer to an informal, everyday conversation between friends, family, or acquaintances.
The most common and neutral word for conversation. Suitable for most everyday situations.
友達と楽しい会話をした。
I had a fun conversation with my friend.
Casual, often light-hearted chat or chit-chat. Can imply talking a lot or gossiping.
彼女とおしゃべりするのが好きだ。
I like chatting with her.
Idle talk, small talk, or chit-chat. Often used for casual conversation at work or social gatherings.
会議の前に少し雑談した。
We had a little small talk before the meeting.
To refer to a formal conversation, dialogue, or discussion, often in professional, academic, or diplomatic contexts.
Dialogue or conversation with an emphasis on exchange of ideas, often used in formal or intellectual contexts.
両国の対話が再開された。
Dialogue between the two countries has resumed.
Formal talks or a conference, typically between leaders or officials.
A talk, discourse, or statement. Often used for public addresses or formal conversations.
To refer to the act of conversing or the general concept of spoken communication.
Again, the most versatile word. Can be used for the general concept of conversation.
会話はコミュニケーションの基本だ。
Conversation is the foundation of communication.
Talk, story, or conversation. Very common in casual contexts. '話をする' means 'to have a conversation'.
The verb phrase 'to have a conversation'. Neutral and widely used.
彼と会話をするのは難しい。
It's difficult to have a conversation with him.
To refer specifically to a conversation via phone, video call, or online chat.
Telephone call or conversation. Used for voice calls.
国際通話は高い。
International calls (conversations) are expensive.
Online chat or messaging conversation. Borrowed from English.
友達とチャットした。
I chatted (had a conversation) with my friend online.
To refer to conversational ability or practice in language learning.
Used in compounds like 英会話 (English conversation) or 会話力 (conversational skills).
英会話を習っています。
I'm learning English conversation.
Conversational ability or skill.
会話 is general conversation, while 対話 implies a more structured or meaningful exchange of ideas, often in formal settings.
While 会話 is correct, in very casual settings おしゃべり or 話 (はなし) might sound more natural. Using 会話 in every situation can sound stiff.
昨夜、長い会話をした。
We had a long conversation last night.
あなたとの会話を楽しんでいます。
I enjoy our conversations.
会話は政治の話になった。
The conversation turned to politics.
首脳会談が行われた。
A summit meeting (conversation) was held.
The president's statement (conversation) was released.
ちょっと話があるんだけど。
I have something to talk about (a conversation to have).
会話力を上げたい。
I want to improve my conversation skills.