Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Compromise" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "compromise", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
妥協
だきょう (dakyō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
折衷
せっちゅう (secchuu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "compromise" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 妥協 and 折衷.
In Japanese, 妥協 (だきょう (dakyō)) is typically associated with "compromise; giving in" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to compromising, giving in, or meeting someone halfway. Can be used with する as a verb.
On the other hand, 折衷 (せっちゅう (secchuu)) maps to "compromise, eclecticism, blend" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to adopting good elements from different ideas, opinions, or styles to create a new, balanced solution or form. Often used for 'compromising' or 'eclectic.'. A literal translation of "compromise" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "妥協"
お互いの意見が対立したため、何度も話し合って_______点を見つけました。
Since their opinions conflicted, they talked many times and found a compromise point.
Bilingual Context for "折衷"
和と洋のスタイルを折衷したデザインが人気だ。
A design that blends Japanese and Western styles is popular.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "お互いの意見が対立したため、何度も話し合って_______点を見つけました。" (Meaning: "Since their opinions conflicted, they talked many times and found a compromise point.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "妥協" fits here because it means "compromise; giving in" in the context of: "Since their opinions conflicted, they talked many times and found a compromise point.". "折衷" represents "compromise, eclecticism, blend".