Translation guide
The English word 'consent' covers permission, agreement, and formal approval. In Japanese, the best choice depends on whether you mean everyday permission, formal consent, mutual agreement, or legal/informed consent.
Expressing that someone allows something to happen, or asking for permission.
The most common word for 'permission' or 'consent' in everyday situations. Used for both giving and receiving permission.
親の許可が必要です。
You need your parents' consent.
許可なく入ってはいけません。
You must not enter without permission.
A more formal word for 'consent' or 'acceptance', often used in business or official contexts.
ご承諾いただけますか。
Could we have your consent?
Literally 'to agree', but often used where English would say 'consent'. Implies active agreement.
彼はその計画に同意した。
He consented to the plan.
When two or more parties reach an agreement or share the same opinion.
Used for mutual consent or agreement, especially in contracts, negotiations, or formal settings.
両者の合意に達した。
They reached mutual consent.
A phrase meaning 'to be in agreement' or 'to see eye to eye'. Less formal than 合意.
その点については意見が一致した。
We consented on that point.
The specific concept of giving permission after understanding risks and details, common in medical or research contexts.
The direct loanword for 'informed consent'. Widely understood in medical and legal fields.
手術の前にインフォームド・コンセントが必要です。
Informed consent is required before surgery.
A Japanese phrase meaning 'explanation and consent', often used in medical contexts as a more native alternative to the loanword.
医師は患者に説明と同意を求めた。
The doctor sought informed consent from the patient.
Referring to a written consent form or official document.
A written consent form. Very common in administrative, medical, and business settings.
同意書にサインしてください。
Please sign the consent form.
A formal letter of consent or acceptance, often used in business contracts.
承諾書を提出してください。
Please submit the consent letter.
When consent is not explicitly stated but understood from actions or silence.
An idiomatic phrase for 'tacit understanding' or 'unspoken consent'.
それは暗黙の了解だった。
That was tacit consent.
Tacit permission or connivance; often implies turning a blind eye.
政府はその行為を黙認していた。
The government gave its tacit consent to the act.
許可 (kyoka) is general permission, often from an authority. 承諾 (shōdaku) is formal acceptance of a request. 同意 (dōi) is agreement or consent, often mutual. Use 許可 for everyday permission, 承諾 for formal consent, and 同意 when emphasizing agreement.
The loanword コンセント (konsento) means 'electrical outlet' in Japanese, not 'consent'. Avoid using it to mean permission or agreement.