Translation guide
Expresses the idea of acting first or leading an action without waiting for others. Japanese often uses verbs like 主導する, 率先する, or set phrases like 先手を打つ, depending on context.
To assume control or guide a group, project, or process.
Means to take the lead or initiative in a project, meeting, or movement. Often used in business or organizational contexts.
彼がプロジェクトを主導した。
He took the initiative on the project.
A direct loan from English 'initiative'. Common in business settings, but can sound slightly formal or jargony.
会議でイニシアチブを取った。
I took the initiative at the meeting.
Literally 'take the leading voice', used when someone initiates a group activity like a party, campaign, or cheer. Slightly traditional.
彼が乾杯の音頭を取った。
He took the initiative to propose a toast.
To do something on one's own accord, especially to solve a problem or seize an opportunity.
Means to take the lead or be the first to act, often in a helpful or proactive way. Implies setting an example.
彼女は率先して掃除を始めた。
She took the initiative and started cleaning.
Literally 'move by oneself'. A natural, casual way to say you acted on your own initiative.
指示を待たずに自分から動いた。
I took the initiative without waiting for instructions.
Means to act autonomously or proactively. Common in self-development and business contexts.
彼はいつも主体的に行動する。
He always takes the initiative.
To act before an opponent or competitor to gain an advantage.
Literally 'strike the first move'. Used in games, business, or any competitive situation to mean taking the initiative to preempt the other side.
ライバル会社が先手を打って新製品を発表した。
The rival company took the initiative and announced a new product.
Means to forestall or take the initiative by acting before the opponent. More formal and often used in strategic contexts.
彼は機先を制して交渉を有利に進めた。
He took the initiative and steered the negotiations in his favor.
To be the one who starts a conversation, asks someone out, or makes the first move socially.
Literally 'call out by oneself'. The most natural way to say you initiated a conversation or approach.
彼に自分から声をかけた。
I took the initiative and talked to him.
Loanword from English 'approach'. Often used in dating contexts to mean making the first move.
彼女の方からアプローチしてきた。
She took the initiative and approached me.
The phrase 'take the initiative' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Translating word-for-word (e.g., 主導権を取る) can sound unnatural. Choose the expression that best fits the context: leading a group, acting proactively, making a preemptive move, or initiating social contact.