Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Consultation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "consultation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
相談
そうだん (sōdan)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
協議
きょうぎ (kyōgi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "consultation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 相談 and 協議.
In Japanese, 相談 (そうだん (sōdan)) is typically associated with "consultation, discussion, to consult" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Can be a noun.
On the other hand, 協議 (きょうぎ (kyōgi)) maps to "consultation, discussion, conference" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Typically refers to a formal discussion or deliberation between parties to reach an agreement or decision. 合意や決定に至るために、関係者間で公式に行われる話し合いや審議を指します。. A literal translation of "consultation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "相談"
困ったときは先生に相談してください。
When you're in trouble, please consult your teacher.
Bilingual Context for "協議"
その問題について、関係部署と協議する予定です。
We plan to consult with the relevant departments about that issue.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "困ったときは先生に ＿＿＿ してください。" (Meaning: "When you're in trouble, please consult your teacher.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "相談" fits here because it means "consultation, discussion, to consult" in the context of: "When you're in trouble, please consult your teacher.". "協議" represents "consultation, discussion, conference".