Translation guide
Describes two or more people or things positioned so that their fronts are toward one another. Japanese uses verbs, adverbs, and set phrases depending on whether the focus is on position, action, or mutual orientation.
To describe two people or objects placed so that they face each other.
The most common way to say 'facing each other' as an adverbial phrase. Used for sitting, standing, or being positioned opposite someone.
私たちは向かい合って座った。
We sat facing each other.
More formal or written. Often used for official meetings or when two parties face each other directly.
両者は対面して話し合った。
The two parties talked facing each other.
Similar to 向かい合って but can imply a more direct, sometimes confrontational, facing. Also used for facing a problem together.
彼らは向き合って立っていた。
They stood facing each other.
To describe an action done while facing each other, often implying mutual engagement.
Attach to the continuative form of a verb to mean 'do something to each other'. Not explicitly 'facing', but often used when the action implies facing, like 見つめ合う (stare at each other).
二人は見つめ合った。
The two stared at each other (facing each other).
Specifically means sitting face-to-face, often for a meal or intimate conversation. Somewhat literary or old-fashioned.
差し向かいで食事をした。
We had a meal sitting facing each other.
To describe two structures or objects positioned opposite one another.
The stative form of 向かい合う, used for describing the ongoing state of facing each other.
二つのビルが向かい合っている。
The two buildings are facing each other.
Formal version for objects or buildings facing each other, often in written descriptions.
駅と市役所が対面している。
The station and the city hall face each other.