Translation guide
The English word 'negotiation' covers a range of situations from formal business deals to everyday discussions to reach an agreement. In Japanese, different words and expressions are used depending on the formality, context, and whether the focus is on the process, the outcome, or the interpersonal dynamics.
To refer to formal discussions aimed at reaching an agreement, especially in business, politics, or legal contexts.
The most common and general term for formal negotiations. It implies a process of discussion and compromise between parties with different interests.
価格交渉を始めましょう。
Let's start the price negotiation.
彼は交渉のプロだ。
He is a negotiation expert.
Refers to diplomatic or high-level negotiations, often involving delicate maneuvering and compromise. More formal than 交渉.
両国間の折衝が続いている。
Negotiations between the two countries are ongoing.
Loanword from English, used in business contexts but less common than 交渉. May sound slightly trendy or jargon-like.
今日のネゴシエーションは難航した。
Today's negotiation was tough.
To describe a less formal process of talking things over to find a mutually acceptable solution, such as with family, friends, or colleagues.
A general term for discussion or talk aimed at resolving an issue or reaching an agreement. It emphasizes mutual communication rather than adversarial bargaining.
家族で話し合いをして決めよう。
Let's have a family discussion and decide.
給料について上司と話し合いをした。
I had a discussion with my boss about my salary.
To reach a compromise or settlement, often after some disagreement. Focuses on finding a middle ground.
お互いに折り合いをつけることが大切だ。
It's important for both sides to compromise.
Refers to tactical maneuvering or bargaining in a negotiation, often with a connotation of strategic give-and-take. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.
To express the action of engaging in negotiation.
The verb form of 交渉. Used for formal negotiations.
新しい契約について交渉しています。
We are negotiating a new contract.
The verb form of 話し合い. Used for discussions to reach an agreement in everyday contexts.
この問題について話し合いましょう。
Let's talk over this issue.
The verb form of 折衝. Used for diplomatic or high-level negotiations.
大使が折衝に当たった。
The ambassador engaged in negotiations.
交渉 implies a more formal, often adversarial process with clear interests at stake, like business deals or labor disputes. 話し合い is a broader term for any discussion aimed at mutual understanding or agreement, and is suitable for personal or informal situations.
While understood, ネゴシエーション can sound like unnecessary English jargon. In most cases, 交渉 or 話し合い is more natural.
He's good at bargaining/tactical negotiation.