Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Agree" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "agree", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
賛成する
さんせいする (sansei suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
取り決める
とりきめる (torikimeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "agree" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 賛成する and 取り決める.
In Japanese, 賛成する (さんせいする (sansei suru)) is typically associated with "to agree, to approve, to support" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Verb. Used to express agreement with an opinion, plan, or proposal. Often followed by に.
On the other hand, 取り決める (とりきめる (torikimeru)) maps to "to agree upon, to settle, to conclude" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to formally deciding or agreeing on something after discussion or negotiation, often involving multiple parties or an organization.. A literal translation of "agree" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "賛成する"
私はあなたの意見に賛成します。
I agree with your opinion.
Bilingual Context for "取り決める"
会議で今後の協力体制について取り決めた。
We agreed upon the future cooperation framework at the meeting.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私はあなたの意見に賛成します。" (Meaning: "I agree with your opinion.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "賛成する" fits here because it means "to agree, to approve, to support" in the context of: "I agree with your opinion.". "取り決める" represents "to agree upon, to settle, to conclude".