expression, godan verb (-tsu)
Idiomatic use for taking preventive or proactive measures, often in business or planning contexts.
問題が大きくなる前に手を打つ必要がある。
We need to take measures before the problem gets worse.
政府は景気対策に早く手を打った。
The government quickly took steps to stimulate the economy.
expression, godan verb (-tsu)
strike a bargain; come to an agreement
Used when parties reach a deal or settle terms, especially after negotiation.
交渉の末、ようやく手を打つことができた。
After negotiations, we were finally able to strike a bargain.
両社は合併に向けて手を打った。
The two companies came to an agreement on the merger.
expression, godan verb (-tsu)
clap one's hands
Literal meaning of clapping hands together. Less common than the idiomatic senses; the kanji 拍つ is occasionally used for this sense.
彼は嬉しそうに手を打った。
He clapped his hands happily.