Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Agreement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "agreement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
規約
きやく (kiyaku)
N2 / 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 規約 and 取り決め.
In Japanese, 規約 (きやく (kiyaku)) is typically associated with "agreement, rules, stipulations, terms of service" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Formal rules or regulations, especially for organizations, clubs, or online services.
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 "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.
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: "会員はクラブの ＿＿＿ に従わなければならない。" (Meaning: "Members must abide by the club's rules.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "規約" fits here because it means "agreement, rules, stipulations, terms of service" in the context of: "Members must abide by the club's rules.". "取り決め" represents "agreement; arrangement; settlement; pact".