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
規約
きやく (kiyaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "agreement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一致 and 規約.
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, 規約 (きやく (kiyaku)) maps to "agreement, rules, stipulations, terms of service" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Formal rules or regulations, especially for organizations, clubs, or online services. 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 "規約"
会員はクラブの規約に従わなければならない。
Members must abide by the club's rules.
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.". "規約" represents "agreement, rules, stipulations, terms of service".