Translation guide
How to talk about negotiations in Japanese, from formal business talks to everyday bargaining.
Referring to structured discussions between companies, governments, or organizations to reach an agreement.
The standard term for formal negotiations. Used in business, politics, and legal contexts.
The two companies are continuing price negotiations.
The negotiations are facing difficulties.
A more formal or bureaucratic term for negotiations, often implying behind-the-scenes maneuvering.
Intergovernmental negotiations took place.
Refers to consultations or discussions, often used when parties are trying to reach a consensus. Less adversarial than 交渉.
The labor union and the company began negotiations (consultations).
Negotiating prices or terms in informal settings like markets or with service providers.
Specifically price negotiation. Often used when bargaining at markets.
You can negotiate the price at that shop.
The verb for haggling or bargaining down a price. Very common in casual contexts.
To get a discount (by asking). Literally 'to have them lower the price'. Polite and common.
Could you give me a discount?
Discussing and adjusting conditions like deadlines, contract terms, or personal arrangements.
Also used for non-price negotiations, such as contract terms or schedules.
Negotiate the contract terms.
A discussion or talk aimed at reaching an agreement. Softer and more collaborative than 交渉.
To reach a compromise or find a middle ground. Used when both sides adjust their demands.
Talking about negotiation as a concept, skill, or ongoing process.
While 交渉 can technically cover price bargaining, it sounds overly formal for everyday situations. Use 値切る or まけてもらう when shopping.
交渉 often implies conflicting interests and a more adversarial process, while 協議 suggests cooperative discussion to find a solution. Use 協議 for meetings aimed at consensus-building.
市場で値切ってみた。
I tried haggling at the market.
Can you lower the price a bit more? (lit. Can you haggle more?)
Let's discuss (negotiate) the schedule.
Both parties compromised and reached an agreement.
Learn the basics of negotiation.