Translation guide
The English word "agreement" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese, from formal contracts to casual consensus. This guide breaks them down by meaning and context.
Expressing that people share the same opinion or have come to a mutual understanding, often in conversation.
The most direct and common translation for 'agreement' as a mutual understanding or consensus. Used in both formal and informal contexts.
両者の合意に達した。
They reached an agreement.
合意の上で決めたことです。
It was decided by mutual agreement.
Literally 'opinions match'. A natural way to say people agree, especially in discussions.
その点については意見が一致した。
We agreed on that point.
To agree or consent. Often used when one party agrees to a proposal or opinion.
彼の提案に同意した。
I agreed to his proposal.
Referring to a written or official document that records an agreement, such as a contract, treaty, or pact.
The standard word for a formal contract or agreement, especially in business or legal contexts.
契約書にサインしてください。
Please sign the agreement.
賃貸契約を結ぶ。
To enter into a rental agreement.
Used for formal agreements between organizations or countries, like treaties or accords.
An arrangement or agreement, often less formal than 契約. Can refer to rules or decisions made between parties.
The matching of grammatical features like number, gender, or person between words in a sentence.
Describing a state where things are in harmony or accord, not necessarily a formal agreement.
Harmony or concord. Used for things that go well together, like colors or ideas.
自然との調和を大切にする。
Value harmony with nature.
A traditional concept of harmony and peace, often used in compound words or cultural contexts.
和を以て貴しとなす。
Harmony is to be valued.
合意 (gōi) is a mutual understanding or consensus, often verbal or informal. 契約 (keiyaku) is a legally binding contract. Use 合意 for general agreement and 契約 for signed documents.
口頭での合意だけでは不十分だ。
A verbal agreement alone is not enough.
契約を交わす必要がある。
We need to sign a contract.
The loanword アグリーメント (agurīmento) is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Stick to the Japanese terms above.
長い議論の末、合意に達した。
We came to an agreement after a long discussion.
両社は貿易協定に署名した。
The two companies signed a trade agreement.
平和協定が調印された。
A peace agreement was signed.
事前の取り決めに従う。
Follow the prior agreement.