Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Settlement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "settlement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
清算
せいさん (seisan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
決着
けっちゃく (ketchaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "settlement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 清算 and 決着.
In Japanese, 清算 (せいさん (seisan)) is typically associated with "settlement (of accounts), liquidation, squaring up" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 金銭的な貸し借りや、関係をきっちり片付けること。友人との割り勘や、会社が事業を畳む際の会計処理など幅広い場面で使われます。過去の過ちを「清算する」という比喩的な使い方もします。.
On the other hand, 決着 (けっちゃく (ketchaku)) maps to "settlement, conclusion, decision, end" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies bringing a matter to a definite end or resolution, often after a period of discussion, negotiation, or conflict. Commonly used with verbs like 「決着がつく」. A literal translation of "settlement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "清算"
旅行の費用は、後日みんなで清算することにした。
We decided to settle the travel expenses among everyone later.
Bilingual Context for "決着"
長い議論の末、ついに両者の間で決着がついた。
After a long discussion, a settlement was finally reached between the two parties.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "旅行の費用は、後日みんなで ＿＿＿ することにした。" (Meaning: "We decided to settle the travel expenses among everyone later.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "清算" fits here because it means "settlement (of accounts), liquidation, squaring up" in the context of: "We decided to settle the travel expenses among everyone later.". "決着" represents "settlement, conclusion, decision, end".