At the A1 level, the word 要件 (youken) is quite advanced. Most beginners will first learn the word 必要 (hitsuyou), which means 'necessary.' However, you might encounter youken in very specific contexts, like filling out a simple form or reading a sign at a train station. Think of it as a formal way to say 'the things you must have.' For example, if you see a sign that says 'Requirements for entry,' it might use this word. At this stage, just focus on recognizing the kanji , which you will see in many common words like hitsuyou. Don't worry about using it in your own speech yet; just know that when you see it, it means something important is required. You can think of it as a 'must-have' list. In a classroom, your teacher might mention the youken for passing a test, though they would likely use simpler Japanese. The key is to associate this word with 'rules' and 'necessity.' Even at A1, understanding that Japanese has different words for 'need' based on formality is a great first step. You might see it on a website when you try to sign up for a service, usually followed by a list of things like an email address or a password. Just remember: youken = formal requirements.
By the A2 level, you are starting to handle more 'survival' Japanese in office or official settings. You might hear 要件 (youken) when someone is explaining a simple process, like how to use a library or how to register for a local event. You should understand that youken refers to the criteria you need to meet. For instance, 'To join this club, you must be over 18' is a youken. You might also start to notice the difference between youken and jouken (condition). While you will mostly use jouken at this level, being able to recognize youken in a brochure or a work email is important. It often appears in lists. If you see a list labeled 要件, look for items that follow it. You might also hear the homophone 用件 (business/errand) more often in daily life, such as 'What is your business today?' (Goyouken wa?). At A2, being able to distinguish these two by context is a significant milestone. One is about 'what you need to be/have' (要件), and the other is about 'what you are here to do' (用件). Try to spot youken in job descriptions for part-time work (baito). It will help you understand what qualifications the employer is looking for. It's a stepping stone to more professional Japanese communication.
At the B1 level, 要件 (youken) becomes a core part of your professional and academic vocabulary. This is the stage where you transition from 'everyday Japanese' to 'functional Japanese' for work or study. You should be able to use youken in sentences, especially with the verb 満たす (mitasu). You will likely use it when discussing project goals, software requirements, or legal conditions. For example, 'We need to clarify the requirements for the new project' (Atarashii purojekuto no youken wo meikaku ni suru hitsuyou ga arimasu). You should also be comfortable with compound words like 必須要件 (hisshuu youken) for 'mandatory requirements.' B1 learners are expected to navigate situations like job interviews or meetings where youken is used to define the scope of work. Understanding the nuance that youken is more formal and specific than hitsuyou na mono is crucial. You might also encounter it in news articles about government policies. If the government sets new 'requirements' for a subsidy, they will use this word. At this level, you should not only understand the word when you hear it but also feel confident using it in a business email. It shows that you have a grasp of formal Japanese structure and can discuss abstract concepts of necessity and criteria.
For B2 learners, 要件 (youken) is a word you use with precision. You understand that it is not just a 'requirement' but a 'constitutive element' of a situation. In business, you will use it to distinguish between functional requirements (機能要件) and non-functional requirements (非機能要件) during the design phase of a project. You are also aware of the legal weight the word carries. In a contract, a youken is a specific provision that must be satisfied for a clause to take effect. You should be able to discuss whether a certain proposal 'covers' or 'satisfies' the youken using advanced verbs like 合致する (gatchi suru - to match) or 網羅する (moura suru - to cover/encompass). At this level, you can also identify when youken is used metaphorically or in high-level academic discourse to describe the 'necessary elements' of a social phenomenon or a scientific theory. Your ability to distinguish youken from related terms like shiyou (specifications) and jouken (conditions) should be near-native. You are likely reading technical documentation or legal texts where youken appears frequently, and you can explain these requirements to others in Japanese. This word is a key indicator of your ability to function in a high-level professional environment in Japan.
At the C1 level, your understanding of 要件 (youken) is nuanced and deeply integrated into your professional persona. You recognize its role in formal logic, jurisprudence, and systems engineering. You can lead a 要件定義 (youken teigi) session, managing the conflicting needs of various stakeholders and distilling them into a formal document. You understand the subtle implications of using youken versus seiyaku (constraint) or kousei youso (constituent element). In legal contexts, you can analyze the houritsu youken (legal requirements) of a case and argue whether they have been met based on the evidence. Your vocabulary includes related formal terms like 具備する (gubi suru), which is a formal way to say 'to possess/satisfy' requirements. You also understand the historical and kanji-based roots of the word, allowing you to appreciate its use in classic literature or older legal documents. At C1, you are not just using the word; you are manipulating it to set boundaries and definitions in complex discussions. You might even use it in philosophical contexts to discuss the 'requirements for happiness' or the 'requirements for a stable society.' The word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for precise conceptual mapping.
At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 要件 (youken) and all its technical, legal, and philosophical permutations. You can discern the tiniest shades of meaning between youken and similar high-level terms in specialized fields. For instance, in the philosophy of law, you can discuss the 'essential requirements' of justice or the 'formal requirements' of a sovereign state with native-level fluency. You are capable of drafting complex technical or legal documents where youken are defined with absolute clarity to prevent any future ambiguity. You can also appreciate the word's use in high-level rhetoric, where a speaker might use it to emphasize the absolute necessity of a certain path or action. Your understanding extends to the 'unspoken' youken in Japanese culture—the social requirements for harmony (wa) or the implicit requirements for a successful business relationship in Japan. You can navigate the most formal 'Keigo' environments where youken might be part of a highly ritualized exchange. At this level, the word is a part of your intuitive linguistic framework, and you can switch between its various meanings (technical, legal, general) seamlessly, even in high-pressure environments like legal negotiations or executive-level strategy meetings.

要件 en 30 secondes

  • 要件 (youken) means 'requirement' or 'necessary condition' in formal contexts.
  • It is primarily used in business, IT (requirements definition), and law.
  • Commonly paired with the verb 満たす (mitasu), meaning 'to satisfy' or 'to fulfill'.
  • It differs from 'jouken' (condition) by being more focused on essential, constitutive elements.

The Japanese word 要件 (ようけん - youken) is an essential noun that bridges the gap between everyday business communication and highly technical or legal documentation. At its core, it refers to a 'requirement' or a 'necessary condition' that must be satisfied for a specific outcome to be achieved. If you are a developer, a business analyst, or even someone applying for a visa, this word will be a constant companion in your vocabulary. It is composed of two kanji: (kaname), meaning 'essential' or 'needed,' and (kudasai/ken), meaning 'matter' or 'case.' Together, they signify a matter that is essential to the situation at hand.

Technical Context
In software engineering and project management, youken refers to the functional and non-functional specifications required to build a system. This is often seen in the phrase 要件定義 (youken teigi), which means 'requirements definition.'

新しいシステムの要件を詳しく確認しましょう。 (Let's check the requirements of the new system in detail.)

Beyond the technical realm, youken is used in legal settings to describe the statutory requirements or elements of a crime or contract. For example, for a contract to be valid, certain legal youken must be met. This word carries a weight of necessity; it is not just a 'wish' or a 'preference,' but a non-negotiable prerequisite. In daily life, it can sometimes be confused with its homophone 用件, which refers to 'business' or 'errands' (e.g., 'What is your business here?'). However, 要件 is strictly about the criteria or conditions needed for something to function or be recognized.

Legal Nuance
In Japanese law, youken refers to the 'constitutive elements' of a legal rule. If the youken are met, the kouka (legal effect) is triggered.

法律の要件を満たしていないため、申請は却下されました。 (The application was rejected because it did not meet the legal requirements.)

Understanding youken also requires understanding its relationship with the verb 満たす (mitasu), meaning 'to satisfy' or 'to fulfill.' You will almost always see these two paired together in professional settings. Whether you are discussing the qualifications for a job or the technical specs for a server, you are checking if the current state mitasu the youken. This word is formal and precise, making it a staple of the B1 level and beyond, where learners move from 'things I want' to 'conditions that must be met.'

Comparison with Jouken
While 条件 (jouken) also means 'condition,' 要件 is more focused on the inherent qualities required for something to exist or be valid, whereas jouken often refers to external terms or conditions of a deal.

この役職の要件には、5年の実務経験が含まれます。 (The requirements for this position include five years of practical experience.)

Using 要件 correctly requires a grasp of specific collocations and grammatical patterns. Because it is a noun, it often functions as the object of a sentence or as part of a compound noun. The most common verb associated with it is 満たす (mitasu), meaning to satisfy or fulfill. When you are writing a report or discussing a project, you will frequently say that something 'satisfies the requirements.' Conversely, if something fails, you might say it 満たしていない (mitashite inai).

Common Verb Pairings
  • 要件を満たす: To satisfy requirements.
  • 要件を定義する: To define requirements.
  • 要件を整理する: To organize/clarify requirements.
  • 要件を固める: To finalize requirements.

プロジェクトを開始する前に、すべての要件を整理する必要があります。 (Before starting the project, we need to organize all the requirements.)

Another important aspect is the usage of youken in compound nouns. In professional Japanese, brevity is often achieved by stringing kanji together. 必須要件 (hisshuu youken) refers to 'mandatory requirements'—the things that absolutely must be there. 努力要件 (doryoku youken) refers to 'best-effort requirements' or things that are desirable but not strictly mandatory. Understanding these nuances allows you to navigate complex business discussions where priorities are being set.

When discussing software, you will encounter 機能要件 (kinou youken), which are functional requirements (what the system does), and 非機能要件 (hikinou youken), which are non-functional requirements (how the system performs, security, etc.). These terms are standardized in the Japanese IT industry. If you are a designer, you might hear about デザイン要件. In every case, the word acts as a bucket for all the 'must-haves' of the task.

Sentence Structure Example
[Target] + の + [Requirement Type] + 要件 + を + [Verb].
Example: ソフトウェアのセキュリティ要件を確認する。 (Check the security requirements of the software.)

その提案は、顧客の要件を完全にはカバーしていません。 (That proposal does not completely cover the customer's requirements.)

Finally, consider the formality. 要件 is significantly more formal than hitsuyou na mono (necessary things). In a casual conversation with a friend about what to bring to a party, you wouldn't use youken. You would use youken when writing an email to a client, drafting a contract, or presenting a technical plan. It signals a level of professional rigor and attention to detail that is expected in Japanese corporate culture.

If you step into any Japanese office, particularly in the tech, legal, or administrative sectors, 要件 is a word you will hear daily. It is the language of planning and verification. In a morning meeting (chourei), a manager might ask if the youken for a new feature have been finalized. In a legal department, staff will spend hours debating whether a specific clause meets the youken set forth by the Civil Code of Japan.

In the IT Industry
You will hear this most often during the 'upstream' (jouyu) phase of development. Engineers and clients sit down for 要件定義 (youken teigi) meetings. If the requirements are vague, they are called youken ga aimai, which is a common cause of project failure.

クライアントからの要件が変更になりました。 (The requirements from the client have changed.)

Another common place is in job advertisements. Under the heading 応募要件 (oubo youken), companies list the mandatory qualifications for applicants, such as language proficiency, years of experience, or specific certifications. If you don't meet these youken, your application is likely to be automatically filtered out. Similarly, in government offices (yakusho), when you apply for a permit or a subsidy, the clerk will go through a checklist to see if you meet all the youken.

In the news, you might hear youken used in the context of political debates or international treaties. For instance, when discussing the conditions for a country to join a trade bloc or the criteria for receiving emergency financial aid, commentators will use 要件 to describe the strict hurdles that must be cleared. It is a word of 'gatekeeping'—it defines who or what is allowed to pass through a certain stage of a process.

Common Workplace Phrases
  • 要件を確認する: 'Confirming the requirements' (Very common in emails).
  • 要件に合致する: 'Matches the requirements.'
  • 要件の抜け漏れ: 'Missing requirements' (A nightmare for project managers).

このソフトは、動作要件としてWindows 10以上が必要です。 (This software requires Windows 10 or higher as an operating requirement.)

Finally, in academic or scientific papers, youken is used to describe the conditions necessary for a hypothesis to be proven or for an experiment to be valid. In these contexts, it is often translated as 'prerequisite' or 'criterion.' It is a word that demands clarity and leaves little room for ambiguity, which is why it is so prevalent in any field that requires precision.

One of the most frequent traps for English speakers learning Japanese is the confusion between 要件 (youken) and 条件 (jouken). While both can be translated as 'condition' in English, their usage in Japanese is distinct. 条件 is broader and often refers to terms of an agreement, environmental conditions, or 'if-then' logic. 要件, however, is specifically about the essential elements that constitute something or are required for a definition to be met. Using jouken when you mean 'technical requirements' can make you sound less professional.

Youken vs. Jouken

要件: Essential components. (e.g., 'What are the requirements for a valid passport?')

条件: External terms. (e.g., 'I will go on the condition that you pay for lunch.')

契約の要件を話し合う。 (Talking about 'constitutive elements' of a contract when you mean the 'terms'.)
契約の条件を話し合う。 (Talking about the 'terms/conditions' of the contract.)

Another common mistake is confusing 要件 (youken) with its homophone 用件 (youken). They sound identical but are written with different kanji and have different meanings. 用件 means 'business to attend to' or 'errand.' For example, if you call someone and say, 'I have some business to discuss,' you use 用件. If you use 要件 in that context, it sounds like you are saying, 'I have a list of technical requirements to discuss,' which might be confusing or overly stiff.

Learners also struggle with the verb 満たす (mitasu). Sometimes they try to use suru (to do) or aru (to have) with youken. While youken ga aru (there are requirements) is grammatically correct, it is much more natural and professional to use youken wo mitasu when saying you meet the criteria. Failing to use the correct verb can make your Japanese sound 'translated' rather than natural.

Verb Usage Error

要件を持っている。 (I have the requirements.)

要件を満たしている。 (I fulfill the requirements.)

このツールは、プロフェッショナルの要件をすべて満たしています。 (This tool fulfills all the requirements of a professional.)

Lastly, avoid using 要件 for personal preferences. If you are looking for a new apartment and you want it to have a balcony, that's a kibou (wish) or a jouken (condition/preference). Using youken makes it sound like a legal or technical necessity. Save youken for situations where the 'conditions' are formal, fixed, or part of a defined process.

To truly master 要件, you need to know the words that surround it in the same semantic field. Depending on the context—whether it's a job interview, a technical manual, or a casual conversation—you might choose a different word to express 'what is needed.'

1. 条件 (Jouken)
The most common alternative. Use this for 'conditions' in a broader sense, including 'if' clauses or terms of a deal.
Example: 採用の条件 (Terms of employment).
2. 必須事項 (Hisshuu Jikou)
Literally 'mandatory items.' Use this on forms or checklists to emphasize that something cannot be skipped.
Example: 申し込みの必須事項 (Mandatory items for application).
3. 資格 (Shikaku)
Used specifically for 'qualifications' or 'eligibility.' While youken can cover qualifications, shikaku is more focused on the person's status or certificate.
Example: 受験資格 (Eligibility to take an exam).

このプロジェクトには、高い技術的要件が求められます。 (High technical requirements are demanded for this project.)

In the world of logic and mathematics, you will encounter 必要条件 (hitsuyou jouken), meaning 'necessary condition,' and 十分条件 (juubun jouken), meaning 'sufficient condition.' While youken is often used as a shorthand for 'necessary condition' in legal contexts, hitsuyou jouken is the precise term used in academic logic. If you are translating a logic puzzle, stick to jouken.

For a softer, more conversational tone, you can use 必要なもの (hitsuyou na mono) or 大事な点 (daiji na ten). These are much more common in daily speech between friends or in a classroom setting. Using youken with a friend when discussing what to bring to a hike would sound comically formal, like you are treating the hike as a government project.

Register Comparison
  • 要件: Formal, Business, Legal, Technical.
  • 条件: Neutral, General.
  • 必要なもの: Casual, Daily life.

ビザ更新の要件をウェブサイトで調べました。 (I checked the requirements for visa renewal on the website.)

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The kanji '要' is also used in 'Kaname' (the pivot of a folding fan), symbolizing the most critical point that holds everything together. This perfectly matches the meaning of 'youken' as an essential requirement.

Guide de prononciation

UK /jɒʊken/
US /joʊken/
Pitch accent is usually flat (Heiban style), meaning the pitch stays relatively level.
Rime avec
Bouken (Adventure) Touken (Sword) Jouken (Condition) Houken (Feudal) Kouken (Contribution) Souken (Foundation) Shouken (Securities) Koken (Dignity)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing it as 'Yoken' with a short 'o'. It must be 'Youken' (long 'o').
  • Confusing the pitch with 'Youken' (errand), though they are often both Heiban.
  • Nasalizing the 'n' too much like a French 'en'.
  • Adding a stress on the first syllable like English 'YOU-ken'.
  • Mistaking the 'ke' for 'ki' (Youkin).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The kanji are common but require attention to the 'Yo' (要) vs 'Yo' (用).

Écriture 4/5

Writing 'ken' (件) is easy, but 'yo' (要) has many strokes.

Expression orale 2/5

Pronunciation is simple, though long 'o' is key.

Écoute 4/5

Easy to confuse with 'youken' (business/errand) in fast speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

必要 (Hitsuyou) 大事 (Daiji) 条件 (Jouken) 仕事 (Shigoto) 決める (Kimeru)

Apprends ensuite

定義 (Teigi) 仕様 (Shiyou) 設計 (Sekkei) 検証 (Kenshou) 合致 (Gatchi)

Avancé

具備 (Gubi) 充足 (Juuzoku) 瑕疵 (Kashi) 網羅 (Moura) 担保 (Tanpo)

Grammaire à connaître

Noun + を満たす (to satisfy a noun)

要件を満たす。

Noun + に合致する (to match a noun)

要件に合致する。

Noun + に基づく (based on a noun)

要件に基づく設計。

Noun + とされる (is considered to be...)

それが成立の要件とされる。

Noun + の定義 (definition of noun)

要件の定義。

Exemples par niveau

1

このアプリの要件は何ですか?

What are the requirements for this app?

Simple question using 'wa nan desu ka'.

2

パスポートの要件を確認してください。

Please check the requirements for a passport.

Using 'wo kakunin shite kudasai' for instructions.

3

要件は3つあります。

There are three requirements.

Using counters with 'arimasu'.

4

これが新しい要件です。

This is the new requirement.

Simple 'A wa B desu' structure.

5

要件を教えてください。

Please tell me the requirements.

Polite request using 'oshiete kudasai'.

6

古い要件は忘れてください。

Please forget the old requirements.

Using the adjective 'furui' (old).

7

要件を読みます。

I will read the requirements.

Simple transitive verb 'yomimasu'.

8

簡単な要件です。

It is a simple requirement.

Using a 'na-adjective' with a noun.

1

ビザの要件をウェブサイトで調べました。

I searched for the visa requirements on the website.

Using 'de shirabemashita' for searching.

2

この仕事の要件は厳しいです。

The requirements for this job are strict.

Using the adjective 'kibishii' (strict).

3

申し込みの要件をすべて満たしました。

I have satisfied all the application requirements.

Using 'subete' (all) and 'mitashimashita' (satisfied).

4

要件が変わったので、もう一度確認します。

The requirements changed, so I will check them again.

Using '~node' to explain a reason.

5

必要な要件をリストにしました。

I made a list of the necessary requirements.

Using 'ni shimashita' to mean 'made into'.

6

このテストを受けるための要件は何ですか?

What are the requirements for taking this test?

Using 'tame no' to show purpose.

7

要件が足りないので、申請できません。

I can't apply because I don't meet the requirements (lit. requirements are insufficient).

Using 'tarinai' (insufficient) and potential negative 'dekimasen'.

8

新しい要件について説明します。

I will explain about the new requirements.

Using 'nitsuite' (about).

1

システムの要件定義を来週までに行います。

We will perform the system requirements definition by next week.

Compound noun 'youken teigi' (requirements definition).

2

このプロジェクトの必須要件を整理しましょう。

Let's organize the mandatory requirements for this project.

Using 'hisshuu youken' (mandatory requirements).

3

顧客の要件を正確に理解することが重要です。

It is important to accurately understand the customer's requirements.

Using 'koto ga juuyou desu' (it is important that...).

4

すべての要件を満たしているか確認してください。

Please check if all requirements are being satisfied.

Using '~ka' for an embedded question.

5

法的な要件をクリアする必要があります。

It is necessary to clear the legal requirements.

Using 'houtekina' (legal) and 'kuri-a suru' (to clear/pass).

6

その提案は、我々の要件に合致していません。

That proposal does not match our requirements.

Using 'gatchi shite inai' (not matching).

7

要件が多すぎて、予算を超えてしまいました。

There were too many requirements, so it exceeded the budget.

Using '~sugite' (too much).

8

機能要件だけでなく、非機能要件も考慮してください。

Please consider not only functional requirements but also non-functional requirements.

Using 'dake de naku' (not only... but also).

1

要件の抜け漏れを防ぐために、チェックリストを作成した。

I created a checklist to prevent missing requirements.

Using 'nuke-more' (omissions/leaks).

2

そのシステムは、高可用性の要件を備えている。

The system possesses the requirements for high availability.

Using 'sonaete iru' (to possess/be equipped with).

3

開発チームと要件のすり合わせを行う。

We will conduct a coordination of requirements with the development team.

Using 'suriawase' (coordination/alignment).

4

この役職には、リーダーシップという要件が不可欠だ。

For this position, the requirement of leadership is indispensable.

Using 'to iu' (called/of) and 'fukasetsu' (indispensable).

5

要件定義書の内容に合意が得られた。

Agreement was reached on the contents of the requirements definition document.

Using 'agoi ga erareta' (agreement was obtained).

6

仕様変更に伴い、要件を再検討する必要がある。

With the change in specifications, it is necessary to re-examine the requirements.

Using 'ni tomonai' (along with/accompanying).

7

そのソフトは、最低動作要件を満たしていない。

That software does not meet the minimum operating requirements.

8

セキュリティ要件を厳格に適用する。

We will strictly apply the security requirements.

Using 'genkaku ni' (strictly).

1

法的な構成要件を精査し、弁護方針を固める。

We will scrutinize the legal constituent elements and finalize the defense policy.

Using 'kousei youken' (constituent elements) and 'seisa suru' (scrutinize).

2

要件が抽象的すぎて、実装に落とし込むのが難しい。

The requirements are too abstract, making it difficult to translate them into implementation.

Using 'implement ni otoshikomu' (to break down into implementation).

3

契約成立の要件として、署名と捺印が求められる。

Signature and seal are required as conditions for the formation of a contract.

Using 'seiritsu' (formation/establishment).

4

その政策が成功するための要件を多角的に分析する。

Analyze the requirements for the success of that policy from multiple perspectives.

Using 'takakuteki ni' (multidimensionally).

5

ユーザーの潜在的な要件を掘り起こす作業が必要だ。

Work to dig up the users' latent requirements is necessary.

Using 'senzaiteki' (latent) and 'horiokosu' (to dig up).

6

この理論は、科学的知見としての要件を具備している。

This theory possesses the requirements for scientific knowledge.

Using 'gubi shite iru' (possessing/fulfilling).

7

要件の優先順位付けを行い、フェーズ分けを提案した。

I prioritized the requirements and proposed a phased approach.

Using 'yuusen jun'izuke' (prioritization).

8

不法行為の成立要件について、判例を引用して解説する。

I will explain the requirements for a tort, citing judicial precedents.

Using 'inyou shite' (citing).

1

主権国家としての要件を国際法の観点から論じる。

Discuss the requirements for a sovereign state from the perspective of international law.

Using 'shuken kokka' (sovereign state) and 'ronjiru' (to discuss/argue).

2

その条約は、批准という要件を経て効力を発した。

The treaty took effect after undergoing the requirement of ratification.

Using 'hiju' (ratification) and 'kouryoku wo hasshita' (took effect).

3

民主主義を担保するための制度的要件を再定義すべきだ。

We should redefine the institutional requirements for guaranteeing democracy.

Using 'tanpo suru' (to guarantee/secure).

4

要件定義の不備が、後の甚大な損害を招く結果となった。

Flaws in the requirements definition resulted in incurring immense damages later.

Using 'jinidai na' (immense) and 'manoku' (to invite/lead to).

5

道徳的行為の要件をカントの定言命法に照らして考察する。

Examine the requirements of a moral act in light of Kant's categorical imperative.

Using 'terashite' (in light of).

6

市場経済が健全に機能するための必須要件を整理する。

Organize the mandatory requirements for a market economy to function healthily.

Using 'kenzen ni' (healthily).

7

要件の充足性を証明するために、厳密なテストが実施された。

Strict tests were conducted to prove the sufficiency of the requirements.

Using 'juuzokusei' (sufficiency).

8

その概念の定義には、時間的・空間的要件が含まれる。

The definition of that concept includes temporal and spatial requirements.

Using 'jikan-teki/kuukan-teki' (temporal/spatial).

Synonymes

Collocations courantes

要件を満たす
要件を定義する
要件を整理する
必須要件
機能要件
法的な要件
要件に合致する
要件の抜け漏れ
動作要件
要件を固める

Phrases Courantes

要件定義書

— Requirements Definition Document. A formal document in IT projects.

要件定義書を顧客に送付しました。

応募要件

— Application requirements. Qualifications needed for a job or school.

応募要件をよく読んでから申し込んでください。

成立要件

— Conditions for establishment. Legal criteria for a contract or crime.

犯罪の成立要件を検討する。

非機能要件

— Non-functional requirements. Performance, security, and usability specs.

非機能要件の定義が漏れていました。

最低要件

— Minimum requirements. The baseline needed to function.

このゲームの最低要件は高い。

追加要件

— Additional requirements. New things added to the list later.

クライアントから追加要件が届いた。

要件確認

— Requirement confirmation. The act of double-checking needs.

まずは要件確認から始めましょう。

努力要件

— Best-effort requirements. Desirable but not strictly mandatory.

この項目は努力要件となっています。

動作要件

— Operating requirements. System specs for software.

スマホの動作要件を確認してください。

主要な要件

— Main/Key requirements. The most important criteria.

これが今回のプロジェクトの主要な要件です。

Souvent confondu avec

要件 vs 用件 (Youken)

Sounds identical. Means 'business to attend to' or 'errand'. Use '用件' for 'What is your business?' and '要件' for 'What are the requirements?'

要件 vs 条件 (Jouken)

Means 'condition'. 'Jouken' is broader and can be terms of a deal. 'Youken' is an essential component required for something to be defined as such.

要件 vs 案件 (Anken)

Means 'project' or 'matter/item on the agenda'. Often used in business to refer to a specific deal or case.

Expressions idiomatiques

"要件を呑む"

— To accept the requirements or conditions, often reluctantly.

厳しい要件を呑んで契約した。

Business/Informal
"要件が煮詰まる"

— Requirements reach a final state after much discussion.

ようやく要件が煮詰まってきた。

Business
"要件に縛られる"

— To be constrained or restricted by requirements.

古い要件に縛られて身動きが取れない。

Neutral
"要件を並べる"

— To list off many requirements (often implies too many).

彼は無理な要件を並べるばかりだ。

Neutral
"要件を削る"

— To cut down or reduce the requirements.

予算に合わせて要件を削る。

Business
"要件を詰め込む"

— To cram too many requirements into a project.

一つのアプリに要件を詰め込みすぎだ。

Neutral
"要件を外れる"

— To fall outside of the requirements.

その機能は今回の要件から外れている。

Business
"要件を見極める"

— To discern or identify the true requirements.

顧客の真の要件を見極める必要がある。

Business
"要件を盛り込む"

— To incorporate requirements into a plan or design.

ユーザーの要望を要件に盛り込む。

Business
"要件を突きつける"

— To present requirements forcefully (like an ultimatum).

相手に厳しい要件を突きつけた。

Formal

Facile à confondre

要件 vs 仕様 (Shiyou)

Both relate to project planning.

Youken is 'what' is needed (requirements). Shiyou is 'how' it is made (specifications).

要件を決めてから、仕様を書く。

要件 vs 要望 (Youbou)

Clients often give both.

Youbou is a 'wish' or 'request'. Youken is a 'requirement' that must be met.

顧客の要望を整理して要件にする。

要件 vs 資格 (Shikaku)

Both can mean 'qualifications'.

Shikaku is often a specific certificate or status. Youken is the set of criteria.

資格を持っていることが応募の要件だ。

要件 vs 要素 (Youso)

Both mean 'part of something'.

Youso is a 'component' or 'element'. Youken is a 'prerequisite'.

成功の要素はたくさんあるが、努力は必須の要件だ。

要件 vs 前提 (Zentei)

Both are things needed first.

Zentei is a 'premise' or 'assumption'. Youken is a 'requirement'.

この話は、彼が来ることを前提(要件ではない)にしている。

Structures de phrases

A1

[Noun] の要件は何ですか?

ビザの要件は何ですか?

A2

[Noun] の要件を確認します。

仕事の要件を確認します。

B1

[Noun] の要件を満たしています。

私はすべての要件を満たしています。

B1

要件を [Verb-Te] ください。

要件を整理してください。

B2

要件に合致する [Noun] を探す。

要件に合致する人材を探す。

B2

要件定義を行う。

来週から要件定義を行う。

C1

要件を具備している。

彼はその資格の要件を具備している。

C2

要件の充足性を検証する。

システムの要件の充足性を検証する。

Famille de mots

Noms

要件定義 (Requirements Definition)
成立要件 (Conditions for establishment)
必須要件 (Mandatory requirements)

Verbes

要件化する (To turn into requirements)

Apparenté

必要 (Necessary)
重要 (Important)
条件 (Condition)
要素 (Element)
案件 (Project/Matter)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in business and technical fields; moderate in daily conversation.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'youken' for personal preferences. Use 'kibou' or 'jouken'.

    Saying 'My requirement for a girlfriend is...' using 'youken' sounds like a clinical or legal document.

  • Writing '用件' when you mean 'requirements'. Write '要件'.

    用件 is for errands or business to discuss. 要件 is for criteria/requirements.

  • Saying 'youken ga arimasu' for 'I meet the requirements'. Say 'youken wo mitashite imasu'.

    'Youken ga arimasu' just means 'there are requirements'. It doesn't mean you personally meet them.

  • Confusing 'youken' with 'shiyou' in IT. Use 'youken' for the client's needs and 'shiyou' for the technical specs.

    If you say the 'youken' changed when the 'shiyou' changed, people might think the fundamental goal of the project changed.

  • Using 'youken' for 'if' conditions in grammar. Use 'jouken'.

    'Conditional sentences' are 'jouken-bun', never 'youken-bun'.

Astuces

Use in Emails

When asking a client for their needs, use '要件を確認させてください' (Please let me confirm the requirements). It sounds very professional.

Don't mix up the Yo

要 (essential) vs 用 (use). Remember: 要 has a 'woman' radical, 用 looks like a 'fence'. Use the 'essential' one for requirements.

Job Ads

When reading job ads, look for '必須要件'. These are the deal-breakers. If you don't have them, don't apply.

Learn with Mitasu

Always learn 'youken' and 'mitasu' together. They are a set phrase 80% of the time.

IT Professionals

If you work in IT, memorize 'Youken Teigi' immediately. It is the most important phrase in Japanese project management.

Check the Particle

Use 'wo' with 'mitasu' (要件を満たす) and 'ni' with 'gatchi suru' (要件に合致する).

Long Vowel

The 'ou' in 'youken' is a long 'o'. Practice saying 'Yoh-ken' rather than 'Yo-ken'.

Register

Avoid using 'youken' with friends. It makes you sound like a robot or a bureaucrat.

Legal Study

In law, 'youken' is often paired with 'kouka' (effect). 'If youken, then kouka'.

Context Clues

If you see 'youken' near 'system' or 'visa', it's 'requirements'. If it's near 'phone call' or 'visit', it's likely 'business/errand'.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'You' + 'Can'. If you meet the 'You-ken', then 'You Can' proceed with the project!

Association visuelle

Imagine a gate with a checklist next to it. Only if every box is checked (requirements met) does the gate open.

Word Web

Systems Law Jobs Checklist Prerequisite Mandatory Criteria Specifications

Défi

Try to write three 'youken' for your dream house in Japanese using '...ga youken desu'.

Origine du mot

Borrowed from Middle Chinese. The kanji '要' originally depicted a person with hands on their waist, signifying the 'waist' or 'essential part.' '件' depicts a person and a cow, originally meaning to separate or categorize items.

Sens originel : An essential matter or an indispensable item.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Contexte culturel

None. This is a neutral professional term.

English speakers often use 'requirements' and 'conditions' interchangeably, but in Japanese, 'youken' is strictly for the 'what' and 'jouken' is for the 'if'.

IPA (Information-technology Promotion Agency) Japan standards for Youken Teigi. Japanese Civil Code (Minpou) which lists 'youken' for contracts. Job boards like Rikunabi or Hello Work where 'Oubo Youken' is a standard term.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Software Development

  • 要件定義書 (Requirements spec)
  • 機能要件 (Functional reqs)
  • 非機能要件 (Non-functional reqs)
  • 要件の漏れ (Missing reqs)

Job Hunting

  • 応募要件 (Job reqs)
  • 必須要件 (Must-haves)
  • 歓迎要件 (Nice-to-haves)
  • 要件を満たす (Meet the reqs)

Legal/Contracts

  • 成立要件 (Establishment conditions)
  • 構成要件 (Constituent elements)
  • 法的要件 (Legal requirements)
  • 要件を具備する (Satisfy reqs)

Visa/Government

  • 申請要件 (Application reqs)
  • 交付要件 (Issuance reqs)
  • 受給要件 (Eligibility for benefits)
  • 要件を確認する (Verify reqs)

Hardware/Tech

  • 推奨要件 (Recommended reqs)
  • 最低要件 (Minimum reqs)
  • 動作要件 (Operating reqs)
  • システム要件 (System reqs)

Amorces de conversation

"このプロジェクトの要件はもう固まりましたか? (Have the requirements for this project been finalized yet?)"

"新しいシステムの要件定義について相談したいのですが。 (I'd like to consult with you about the requirements definition for the new system.)"

"応募要件に『5年の経験』とありますが、4年ではダメでしょうか? (The requirements say '5 years experience,' but is 4 years no good?)"

"このアプリを動かすための最低要件を教えてください。 (Please tell me the minimum requirements to run this app.)"

"法的な要件をすべて満たしているか、もう一度確認しましょう。 (Let's check one more time if all the legal requirements are satisfied.)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日の仕事で、どのような『要件』を確認しましたか? (What kind of 'requirements' did you check in your work today?)

理想の仕事の『要件』を3つ日本語で書いてください。 (Write three 'requirements' for your ideal job in Japanese.)

新しい趣味を始めるための『要件』は何だと思いますか? (What do you think are the 'requirements' for starting a new hobby?)

要件定義がうまくいかなかった時の経験について書いてください。 (Write about an experience when a requirements definition did not go well.)

あなたが考える『良いリーダー』の要件は何ですか? (What are the requirements for a 'good leader' in your opinion?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, that would be too formal. Use 'hitsuyou na mono' (necessary things) or 'kaimono risuto' (shopping list). 'Youken' sounds like a legal requirement.

It means 'Requirements Definition.' It's a phase in IT and business where you decide exactly what a system or project needs to do before you start building it.

No, for 'if/else' conditions, use 'jouken'. 'Youken' is used for the business requirements that lead to the code.

Use 'saitei youken' (最低要件) or 'saitei dousa youken' (最低動作要件) for software.

That is '用件', which is pronounced the same but uses different kanji. In speech, context tells them apart.

Yes, extremely common in any professional setting in Japan. You will see it in every job ad and project plan.

The most common and professional verb is 'mitasu' (満たす), meaning to satisfy or fulfill.

It means 'application requirements.' It's the list of things you need (experience, skills) to apply for a job.

You don't call a person a 'youken', but you can say a person 'mitasu the youken' (meets the requirements) for a role.

Yes, it is a technical term in law meaning the 'elements' required for a law to apply (e.g., 'constitutive elements of a crime').

Teste-toi 180 questions

writing

Write 'What are the requirements?' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write 'Please check the requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I satisfy the requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Let's organize the requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'The requirements have changed.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Requirements definition is important.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'The proposal matches the requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'There are no missing requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'These are mandatory requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Check the operating requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I read the requirements on the website.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'The client's requirements are strict.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Discussing the requirements of a sovereign state.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I will explain the new requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'We need to finalize the requirements.' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'There are three requirements.' in Japanese.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'What are the application requirements?' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Consider non-functional requirements as well.' in Japanese.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Examine the legal requirements.' in Japanese.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'I forgot the requirements.' in Japanese.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'What are the requirements?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Check the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I meet the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Let's define the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'The requirements changed.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Is this a mandatory requirement?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'It matches the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'There are no omissions in the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Please tell me the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I will finalize the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'I searched the requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'These are the main requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Discuss the institutional requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Requirements are important.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'Check the system requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'There are three requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'The requirements are simple.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Consider the additional requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Satisfy the legal requirements.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say 'The requirements are strict.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: 'システムの要件を定義します。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '応募要件を確認してください。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件を満たしています。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '動作要件をチェックしました。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '成立要件について説明します。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件は何ですか?'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '必須要件はこれです。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件定義書を送ります。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件を整理しましょう。'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件を読みました。'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件が変わりました。'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件に合致しています。'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '構成要件を精査する。'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件を確認させてください。'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '要件を教えてください。'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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