Translation guide
The English word 'discussion' covers a range of situations from formal debates to casual chats. In Japanese, the best translation depends on the formality, purpose, and depth of the exchange.
これについて話し合いをする必要がある。
We need to have a discussion about this.
議論はとても生産的だった。
The discussion was very productive.
To refer to a formal exchange of ideas, often in a meeting, academic setting, or organized debate.
The most direct equivalent for a formal discussion or debate where people exchange arguments. Often implies a somewhat serious or logical exchange.
その問題について活発な議論が行われた。
A lively discussion was held on the issue.
Used for formal deliberation or debate, often in committees, parliaments, or official settings. More structured than 議論.
委員会で予算案の討議が続いている。
Discussion of the budget proposal continues in the committee.
A formal debate or public discussion, often with opposing sides. Common in academic or political contexts.
学生たちは環境問題について討論した。
The students debated environmental issues.
To refer to an informal talk between people sharing opinions or information.
A mutual conversation or discussion aimed at reaching understanding or a decision. Less formal than 議論, often used in daily life.
家族で今後のことについて話し合いをした。
We had a family discussion about our future plans.
A discussion to seek advice or solve a problem. Often implies one party is consulting the other.
Literally 'to have a talk', this is a very common and natural way to say 'discuss something' in casual contexts.
あとでその件について話をしましょう。
Let's discuss that matter later.
To emphasize the back-and-forth nature of a discussion, often in a neutral or slightly formal sense.
Literally 'exchange of opinions'. A neutral term for a discussion where people share views, common in business or meetings.
会議では活発な意見交換が行われた。
A lively exchange of opinions took place at the meeting.
A dialogue or conversation, often used in contexts of mutual understanding, conflict resolution, or formal settings.
To refer to discussions happening on the internet, such as forums, comment sections, or social media.
Also used for online discussions, especially when they involve debate or argument.
オンライン掲示板でその話題についての議論が白熱している。
The discussion on that topic is heating up on the online forum.
Borrowed from English 'thread', used specifically for a discussion thread on a forum or social media.
Refers to the comment section where discussions take place.
To refer to a discussion in a research paper, thesis, or academic context.
Used in academic writing for 'discussion' or 'consideration' of findings. Implies deep analysis.
この研究の考察では、結果の意味を詳しく議論する。
In the discussion of this study, we will examine the implications of the results in detail.
A formal term for a scholarly article or treatise, sometimes used for a detailed discussion.
議論 (giron) implies a more formal, often argumentative discussion, while 話し合い (hanashiai) is a mutual conversation aimed at understanding or resolving something. Use 話し合い for everyday discussions among friends or family.
彼らはいつも政治について議論している。
They are always debating politics.
夫婦で将来のことを話し合った。
The couple discussed their future together.
The loanword ディスカッション is used, but mainly in academic or business contexts for a structured group discussion. In casual speech, it can sound unnatural. Use native Japanese words instead.
授業でグループディスカッションをした。
We had a group discussion in class.
長い話し合いの末、彼らは合意に達した。
After a long discussion, they reached an agreement.
その話題は議論中です。
The topic is under discussion.
進路について先生に相談した。
I discussed my career path with my teacher.
Both countries are trying to resolve the issue through dialogue.
このスレッドでは旅行のコツについて話し合っています。
In this thread, we're discussing travel tips.
A discussion is happening in the video's comment section.
彼の最新の論考は現代美術に関する深い議論を提供している。
His latest treatise provides a deep discussion on contemporary art.