Translation guide
The English word 'discussion' covers a range of situations from formal debates to casual chats. In Japanese, the best translation depends on the formality, purpose, and depth of the exchange.
We need to have a discussion about this.
The discussion was very productive.
To refer to a formal exchange of ideas, often in a meeting, academic setting, or organized debate.
The most direct equivalent for a formal discussion or debate where people exchange arguments. Often implies a somewhat serious or logical exchange.
A lively discussion was held on the issue.
Used for formal deliberation or debate, often in committees, parliaments, or official settings. More structured than 議論.
A formal debate or public discussion, often with opposing sides. Common in academic or political contexts.
To refer to an informal talk between people sharing opinions or information.
To emphasize the back-and-forth nature of a discussion, often in a neutral or slightly formal sense.
To refer to discussions happening on the internet, such as forums, comment sections, or social media.
Also used for online discussions, especially when they involve debate or argument.
To refer to a discussion in a research paper, thesis, or academic context.
議論 (giron) implies a more formal, often argumentative discussion, while 話し合い (hanashiai) is a mutual conversation aimed at understanding or resolving something. Use 話し合い for everyday discussions among friends or family.
They are always debating politics.
After a long discussion, they reached an agreement.
Discussion of the budget proposal continues in the committee.
学生たちは環境問題について討論した。
The students debated environmental issues.
A mutual conversation or discussion aimed at reaching understanding or a decision. Less formal than 議論, often used in daily life.
We had a family discussion about our future plans.
A discussion to seek advice or solve a problem. Often implies one party is consulting the other.
I discussed my career path with my teacher.
Literally 'to have a talk', this is a very common and natural way to say 'discuss something' in casual contexts.
Let's discuss that matter later.
Literally 'exchange of opinions'. A neutral term for a discussion where people share views, common in business or meetings.
A lively exchange of opinions took place at the meeting.
A dialogue or conversation, often used in contexts of mutual understanding, conflict resolution, or formal settings.
Both countries are trying to resolve the issue through dialogue.
The discussion on that topic is heating up on the online forum.
Borrowed from English 'thread', used specifically for a discussion thread on a forum or social media.
In this thread, we're discussing travel tips.
Refers to the comment section where discussions take place.
A discussion is happening in the video's comment section.
Used in academic writing for 'discussion' or 'consideration' of findings. Implies deep analysis.
In the discussion of this study, we will examine the implications of the results in detail.
A formal term for a scholarly article or treatise, sometimes used for a detailed discussion.
His latest treatise provides a deep discussion on contemporary art.
夫婦で将来のことを話し合った。
The couple discussed their future together.
The loanword ディスカッション is used, but mainly in academic or business contexts for a structured group discussion. In casual speech, it can sound unnatural. Use native Japanese words instead.
We had a group discussion in class.
その話題は議論中です。
The topic is under discussion.