Translation guide
The English word 'communication' covers a broad range of concepts, from exchanging information to personal connection. In Japanese, the most natural equivalent depends on the specific nuance: general information exchange, personal rapport, a formal message, or the act of conveying something. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each situation.
The broad concept of sharing information, thoughts, or feelings between people or groups.
The most common and direct loanword for 'communication' in a general sense. Used widely in business, education, and daily life.
チーム内のコミュニケーションが大切です。
Communication within the team is important.
コミュニケーション能力を高めたい。
I want to improve my communication skills.
A more formal term emphasizing mutual understanding. Often used in professional or technical contexts.
プロジェクトの成功には、明確な意思疎通が不可欠です。
Clear communication is essential for the project's success.
Focuses on the transmission of information, often one-way. Used in contexts like signal transmission or relaying messages.
情報の伝達手段としてメールを使う。
Use email as a means of information transmission.
The quality of mutual understanding and emotional connection in a relationship.
Also used for personal rapport, especially in phrases like 'communication gap' or 'lack of communication'.
彼とはコミュニケーションがうまくいかない。
I have trouble communicating with him.
Describes a state where hearts are in mutual understanding. More emotional and intimate than コミュニケーション.
言葉がなくても心が通じ合うこともある。
Sometimes we can communicate without words.
Refers to exchange or interaction, often in social or cultural contexts. Can imply deeper connection.
A specific instance of communication, such as a letter, email, or statement.
The most common word for a message, notice, or contact. Used for practical communication like emails, calls, or updates.
彼から連絡がありましたか？
Have you heard from him? (Has there been any communication from him?)
詳細は後ほど連絡します。
I will contact you with the details later.
A verbal message left for someone. Often used when relaying a message through a third party.
Refers to correspondence or telecommunications. Often used in compound words like 通信手段 (means of communication).
The process of making something known or sharing information.
A natural way to express 'the act of communicating' using the verb 伝える (to convey). Often used in explanations.
自分の考えを伝えることは難しい。
Communicating your thoughts is difficult.
Focuses on expression, especially artistic or emotional. Can be used for 'communication of feelings'.
感情の表現としてのコミュニケーション。
Communication as an expression of emotions.
コミュニケーション is a broad concept of mutual exchange, while 連絡 refers to a specific message or contact. Use 連絡 for practical notifications and コミュニケーション for the overall process or skill.
彼とはコミュニケーションが足りない。
There's not enough communication between us.
彼から連絡が来た。
I got a message from him.
While コミュニケーション is widely understood, using it in every context can sound unnatural. For specific messages, use 連絡; for deep understanding, consider 意思疎通 or 心が通じ合う.
良好な関係には、良いコミュニケーションが欠かせません。
Good communication is key to a healthy relationship.
部署間の意思疎通を改善する必要があります。
We need better communication between departments.
銀行から連絡がありました。
I received a communication from the bank.
国際交流を通じて多くのことを学んだ。
I learned a lot through international exchange.
伝言を預かっていますか？
Do you have a message for me?
通信手段が遮断された。
Means of communication were cut off.