Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Agreement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "agreement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
合意
ごうい (gōi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
取り決め
とりきめ (torikime)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "agreement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 合意 and 取り決め.
In Japanese, 合意 (ごうい (gōi)) is typically associated with "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.
On the other hand, 取り決め (とりきめ (torikime)) maps to "agreement; arrangement; settlement; pact" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to a decision or rule agreed upon by multiple parties. Can be formal or informal. 複数人が合意した決定や約束事を指します。. A literal translation of "agreement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "取り決め"
会議で今後の業務に関する取り決めをした。
We made an arrangement regarding future work at the meeting.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "両国は、新しい貿易協定の内容について正式に_______しました。" (Meaning: "The two countries formally agreed on the contents of the new trade agreement.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "合意" fits here because it means "agreement; consent; mutual understanding" in the context of: "The two countries formally agreed on the contents of the new trade agreement.". "取り決め" represents "agreement; arrangement; settlement; pact".