Translation guide
Describes a bond between people that is emotionally intimate, familiar, or tightly connected. Japanese expresses this through nouns, adjectives, and verbs that emphasize intimacy, trust, and closeness.
Describing a relationship with deep emotional closeness, trust, and familiarity, such as between close friends, family, or romantic partners.
A formal noun or na-adjective meaning 'intimate' or 'close'. Often used in written or formal contexts to describe relationships.
二人は親密な関係にある。
They have a close relationship.
A common, natural phrase meaning 'to be on good terms' or 'to be close'. Used for friends, family, or colleagues.
彼とはとても仲がいい。
I'm very close with him.
An i-adjective meaning 'close' or 'intimate'. Often used to describe a friend or relationship.
親しい友人に相談した。
I consulted a close friend.
A formal noun or na-adjective meaning 'close' or 'tight', often used for connections or ties rather than personal feelings.
両国は密接な関係を築いている。
The two countries have built a close relationship.
Emphasizing that people see each other often, communicate regularly, or are deeply involved in each other's lives.
Literally 'deep association', used when people have a long-standing, involved relationship.
あの家族とは付き合いが深い。
We have a close relationship with that family.
A simple, natural way to say you see someone often, implying closeness.
彼女とはよく会う。
I see her often (we're close).
Specifically for a romantic relationship that is serious, committed, or intimate.
Euphemistic phrase meaning 'deep relationship', often implying a romantic or sexual relationship.
二人は深い仲だと噂されている。
They are rumored to have a close relationship.
Noun meaning 'a couple in a romantic relationship'. More direct than 'close relationship' but captures the exclusive bond.
あの二人は恋人同士だ。
Those two are in a close relationship (as lovers).
The direct translation '近い関係' (chikai kankei) is not natural in Japanese. Use the expressions above depending on context.
Japanese often implies closeness through context rather than stating it explicitly. Phrases like 'よく一緒にいる' (we are often together) can convey closeness without a direct label.