Translation guide
How to express that two or more people or things are positioned opposite one another, looking at or confronting each other.
Describing two or more people or objects that are facing one another, often in a static position.
Expressing that two parties confront each other, often in a conflict, competition, or serious discussion.
Used for showdowns, confrontations, or facing off in a competition or conflict.
両チームが決勝で対決する。
The two teams will face each other in the finals.
Specifically emphasizing mutual eye contact or gazing at each other.
To gaze at each other, often with emotion (love, intensity).
恋人たちは見つめ合った。
The lovers gazed at each other.
向かい合う is the general term for physical facing. 対面する is formal and often implies a meeting. 対決する is for confrontations or competitions.
テーブルを挟んで向かい合う
to face each other across a table
面接官と対面する
to meet the interviewer face to face
ライバルと対決する
to face off against a rival
The most common and neutral way to say 'face each other'. Used for people, buildings, or objects positioned opposite one another.
二人は向かい合って座った。
The two sat facing each other.
向かい合った建物
buildings facing each other
More formal, often used for meetings or confrontations. Implies a face-to-face encounter.
初めて対面したとき、緊張した。
I was nervous when we met face to face for the first time.
Similar to 向かい合う but can also imply confronting a problem or situation. Less common for physical positioning.
彼らは向き合って話し合った。
They talked facing each other.
Formal/literary term for standing opposite each other, often in a hostile or tense situation.
両軍は川を挟んで対峙した。
The two armies faced each other across the river.
Can also be used metaphorically for confronting each other, though less intense than 対決する.
問題に向かい合う
to face a problem
To look at each other's faces, often in surprise or to exchange glances.
彼らは顔を見合わせて笑った。
They looked at each other and laughed.