Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Conversation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "conversation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
会話
かいわ (kaiwa)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
会談
かいだん (kaidan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "conversation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 会話 and 会談.
In Japanese, 会話 (かいわ (kaiwa)) is typically associated with "conversation" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used for general conversation between people. Often used with する.
On the other hand, 会談 (かいだん (kaidan)) maps to "conversation, talk, interview (formal)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal meeting or talk, usually between important figures. A literal translation of "conversation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "会話"
彼は日本語で会話するのが上手です。
He is good at having conversations in Japanese.
Bilingual Context for "会談"
両国の首脳は平和条約について会談を行った。
The leaders of both countries held talks about the peace treaty.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は日本語で ＿＿＿ するのが上手です。" (Meaning: "He is good at having conversations in Japanese.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "会話" fits here because it means "conversation" in the context of: "He is good at having conversations in Japanese.". "会談" represents "conversation, talk, interview (formal)".