Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Discussion" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "discussion", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
討議
とうぎ (tōgi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
詮議
せんぎ (sengi)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "discussion" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 討議 and 詮議.
In Japanese, 討議 (とうぎ (tōgi)) is typically associated with "discussion, debate" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal term for a discussion or debate, often with the aim of reaching a conclusion or decision through a thorough exchange of opinions..
On the other hand, 詮議 (せんぎ (sengi)) maps to "Discussion; inquiry; deliberation (often with a focus on determining facts or responsibility, or finding a solution)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Implies a serious, thorough discussion or investigation, often to clarify guilt or responsibility, or to resolve a complex, sometimes controversial, issue. Has a somewhat formal or investigative tone.. A literal translation of "discussion" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "討議"
その問題について長時間討議が行われたが、結論は出なかった。
A long discussion was held about that issue, but no conclusion was reached.
Bilingual Context for "詮議"
その汚職疑惑については、徹底的な詮議が行われることになった。
A thorough inquiry was decided upon regarding the corruption allegations.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その問題について長時間 ＿＿＿ が行われたが、結論は出なかった。" (Meaning: "A long discussion was held about that issue, but no conclusion was reached.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "討議" fits here because it means "discussion, debate" in the context of: "A long discussion was held about that issue, but no conclusion was reached.". "詮議" represents "Discussion; inquiry; deliberation (often with a focus on determining facts or responsibility, or finding a solution)".