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.
I had a fun conversation with my friend.
Casual, often light-hearted chat or chit-chat. Can imply talking a lot or gossiping.
Idle talk, small talk, or chit-chat. Often used for casual conversation at work or social gatherings.
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.
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.
To refer specifically to a conversation via phone, video call, or online chat.
Telephone call or conversation. Used for voice calls.
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).
We had a long conversation last night.
彼女とおしゃべりするのが好きだ。
I like chatting with her.
会議の前に少し雑談した。
We had a little small talk before the meeting.
Dialogue between the two countries has resumed.
Formal talks or a conference, typically between leaders or officials.
A summit meeting (conversation) was held.
A talk, discourse, or statement. Often used for public addresses or formal conversations.
The president's statement (conversation) was released.
Conversation is the foundation of communication.
Talk, story, or conversation. Very common in casual contexts. '話をする' means 'to have a conversation'.
I have something to talk about (a conversation to have).
The verb phrase 'to have a conversation'. Neutral and widely used.
It's difficult to have a conversation with him.
International calls (conversations) are expensive.
Online chat or messaging conversation. Borrowed from English.
I chatted (had a conversation) with my friend online.
I'm learning English conversation.
Conversational ability or skill.
I want to improve my conversation skills.
dialogue for peace
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.
I enjoy our conversations.
The conversation turned to politics.