Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Agreement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "agreement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一致
いっち (icchi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
合意
ごうい (gōi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "agreement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一致 and 合意.
In Japanese, 一致 (いっち (icchi)) is typically associated with "agreement, conformity, match, coincidence" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used as a する verb.
On the other hand, 合意 (ごうい (gōi)) maps to "agreement; consent; mutual understanding" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to reaching a mutual agreement, consent, or consensus on a condition or proposal. Can be used with する as a verb. A literal translation of "agreement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "一致"
二人の意見が見事に一致した。
The opinions of the two perfectly matched.
Bilingual Context for "合意"
両国は、新しい貿易協定の内容について正式に_______しました。
The two countries formally agreed on the contents of the new trade agreement.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "二人の意見が見事に ＿＿＿ した。" (Meaning: "The opinions of the two perfectly matched.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一致" fits here because it means "agreement, conformity, match, coincidence" in the context of: "The opinions of the two perfectly matched.". "合意" represents "agreement; consent; mutual understanding".