Translation guide
The concept of a harmonious, trusting relationship where communication flows easily. In Japanese, this is often expressed through words describing emotional connection, mutual understanding, or a good atmosphere between people.
Describing a positive, trusting connection between people, often built over time.
The skill of creating a friendly, cooperative atmosphere with someone, especially in professional or first-meeting situations.
信頼関係 is the standard, natural term for a trusting relationship in most contexts. ラポール is a technical term used mainly in psychology, counseling, and some business training. In everyday conversation, ラポール may sound overly academic.
患者との信頼関係が治療の鍵だ。
Rapport with the patient is key to treatment.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'rapport' in all contexts. Translating it directly as ラポール is acceptable in specialized fields, but in general use, it's better to describe the nature of the relationship (trust, understanding, compatibility).
Literally 'trust relationship'. This is the most direct and common way to express 'rapport' in Japanese, emphasizing mutual trust.
彼とは長年の信頼関係がある。
I have a long-standing rapport with him.
顧客との信頼関係を築くことが大切だ。
Building rapport with clients is important.
Loanword from French/English, used in psychology, counseling, and business contexts. Understandable but less common in everyday speech.
カウンセリングではラポールの形成が重要だ。
In counseling, building rapport is crucial.
Describes a state where hearts are in mutual understanding, implying deep emotional rapport.
彼女とは心が通じ合っている。
I have a real rapport with her.
Means 'to get along well' or 'to be compatible'. It implies a natural rapport in personality, but is more casual and less about deep trust.
彼とは気が合う。
I have a good rapport with him.
To open up and become friendly, often used when initial formality gives way to a relaxed rapport.
彼はすぐに打ち解けることができる。
He can quickly build rapport.
初対面でもすぐに打ち解けた。
We quickly established a rapport even though it was our first meeting.
To become close or familiar. Describes the process of building rapport, often used in social contexts.
彼女と親しくなるのに時間はかからなかった。
It didn't take long to build rapport with her.
In Japanese culture, building rapport often starts with casual small talk (雑談, ざつだん). Explicitly mentioning this strategy can be useful.
雑談を通じてラポールを築く。
Build rapport through small talk.