相違
相違 30초 만에
- A formal noun meaning 'difference' or 'discrepancy' used in professional Japanese.
- Commonly found in news, legal documents, and business reports to describe inconsistencies.
- Often used in the phrase '相違ない' (sōi nai) to mean 'certainly' or 'no doubt'.
- More objective and analytical than the everyday word '違い' (chigai).
The Japanese word 相違 (そうい / sōi) is a sophisticated noun that translates primarily to 'difference,' 'discrepancy,' or 'variation.' While the common word chigai (違い) covers almost any kind of difference, sōi is reserved for formal, academic, or professional settings where precision is paramount. It implies a gap or a lack of alignment between two sets of data, two opinions, or a statement and the underlying reality.
- Etymology and Kanji
- The first kanji, 相 (sō), means 'mutual' or 'aspect.' The second, 違 (i), means 'to differ' or 'to be wrong.' Together, they describe the 'mutual difference' or the state where two things do not match up when compared side-by-side.
- Formal Nuance
- Using sōi instead of chigai signals to the listener that you are discussing a serious matter, such as a contractual inconsistency, a scientific variance, or a formal disagreement in a boardroom. It removes the emotional weight often found in personal disagreements and replaces it with an objective, analytical tone.
報告書の内容と事実に相違はありません。(Hōkokusho no naiyō to jijitsu ni sōi wa arimasen.)
There is no discrepancy between the contents of the report and the facts.
In business, you will often encounter the phrase 相違点 (sōiten), which means 'points of difference.' This is the standard way to list how two products, proposals, or strategies differ from one another. It focuses on the structural or factual gaps rather than subjective preferences.
両者の意見には大きな相違が見られる。(Ryōsha no iken ni wa ōkina sōi ga mirareru.)
A significant difference of opinion is observed between the two parties.
- Legal Contexts
- In Japanese law, sōi is used to describe when evidence does not match a testimony. It is a clinical term that describes the state of non-conformity. For example, shōgen no sōi refers to discrepancies in witness testimony.
契約書と送付された商品に相違があった。(Keiyakusho to sōfu sareta shōhin ni sōi ga atta.)
There was a discrepancy between the contract and the product that was sent.
Finally, the expression 相違ない (sōi nai) is a powerful formal way to say 'certainly' or 'there is no doubt.' You might hear this in historical dramas or high-level legal statements where someone confirms a fact with 100% certainty. It literally means 'there is no difference [between what I am saying and the truth].'
Mastering 相違 requires understanding its grammatical placement as a noun that often acts as the subject or object of a sentence, or as part of a compound phrase. Because it is a kango (Chinese-origin word), it follows the rules of formal Japanese grammar.
- The 'A and B' Structure
- The most common way to use sōi is to compare two things using the particle と (to) or の間に (no aida ni). The pattern is typically: [Noun A] と [Noun B] の間の相違 (The difference between A and B).
理想と現実の相違に苦しむ。(Risō to genjitsu no sōi ni kurushimu.)
To suffer from the discrepancy between ideal and reality.
Another frequent pattern is using the verb 生じる (shōjiru - to arise/occur). When a gap opens up between expectations and results, we say sōi ga shōjiru.
計算に若干の相違が生じている。(Keisan ni jakkan no sōi ga shōjite iru.)
A slight discrepancy has arisen in the calculations.
- Using 'Sōi nai' for Certainty
- This is a set phrase used to confirm something. It can follow a noun directly or a verb in the plain form. It is much more formal than machigai nai. In a police station, a suspect might sign a statement saying 'Kore ni sōi arimasen' (This is correct/There is no discrepancy in this statement).
彼が犯人であることに相違ない。(Kare ga hannin de aru koto ni sōi nai.)
There is no doubt that he is the culprit.
When describing the 'points' or 'items' that are different, always use 相違点. This is essential for comparative analysis in essays or business reports. For example, 'Sōiten wo rekkyo suru' (To list the points of difference).
You won't often hear 相違 at a casual izakaya or while chatting with friends about movies. However, it is ubiquitous in the 'adult' world of Japanese society. Understanding where it appears will help you gauge the level of formality in a conversation.
- The News and Media
- News anchors use sōi when reporting on political disagreements or statistical variations. If two government departments release different numbers for the same metric, the news will call it a sūchi no sōi (discrepancy in numerical values).
政府の見解と世論には大きな相違がある。(Seifu no kenkai to yoron ni wa ōkina sōi ga aru.)
There is a large discrepancy between the government's view and public opinion.
In the corporate world, sōi is the 'safe' word for errors. If a shipment arrives with 90 items instead of 100, the manager will mention the sūryō no sōi (discrepancy in quantity). It sounds professional and focuses on the objective fact of the mismatch.
前回の説明と内容に相違がございました。(Zenkai no setsumei to naiyō ni sōi ga gozaimashita.)
There was a discrepancy between the previous explanation and the current content.
- Academic and Scientific Research
- When comparing experimental results to theoretical predictions, researchers use sōi. It is the standard term for 'variance' or 'divergence' in a scientific paper.
実験データと理論値の相違を分析する。(Jikken dēta to rironchi no sōi wo bunseki suru.)
To analyze the discrepancy between experimental data and theoretical values.
Lastly, in legal documents, you will see sōi nai at the end of affidavits. It functions like the English phrase 'I hereby certify that the above is true and correct.'
While 相違 is a useful word, its high level of formality makes it easy to misuse in casual settings. Here are the most frequent pitfalls for English speakers learning Japanese.
- Mistake 1: Over-Formality
- Using sōi when talking about personal preferences or simple differences. If you say 'My taste in food and my brother's taste have a sōi,' it sounds like you are reading a police report about your dinner. Use chigai (違い) for everyday things.
Incorrect: このリンゴとあのリンゴは相違がある。
This apple and that apple have a discrepancy. (Too formal!)
Instead, use 違いがある (chigai ga aru) for physical objects or personal matters.
- Mistake 2: Confusing 'Sōi' with 'Machigai'
- Machigai refers to a mistake or an error made by someone. Sōi refers to the state of two things being different. While they are related, sōi is the objective gap, whereas machigai is the human error that might have caused it.
Confusing: テストの答えに相違があった。
There was a discrepancy in the test answers. (Sounds like the test key is wrong, not the student).
Lastly, remember that sōi nai is a fixed expression. You cannot easily swap it for sōi ga nai in every context. Sōi nai is almost like a single modal verb meaning 'certainly,' whereas sōi ga nai simply means 'there is no difference.'
Japanese has many words for 'difference.' Choosing the right one depends on the context and the degree of formality you want to convey. Let's compare 相違 with its closest relatives.
- 1. 違い (Chigai)
- The most common and versatile word. Used for everything from flavors to colors to opinions.
Comparison: Chigai is everyday language; sōi is for reports and legal documents. - 2. 差異 (Saii)
- Very similar to sōi but often used in more technical or statistical contexts. It highlights the 'degree' of difference.
Comparison: Saii is often used in data analysis (e.g., 'statistical difference'). - 3. 齟齬 (Sogo)
- This means a 'mismatch' or 'discordance,' often implying that things are not working together correctly because of the difference.
Comparison: Sogo implies a problem or a failure to mesh; sōi is just the fact of the difference.
認識の齟齬をなくす。(Nishiki no sogo wo nakusu.)
To eliminate discrepancies in understanding (mismatches).
When you want to emphasize a huge, unbridgeable gap, use 隔たり (hedatari). This word evokes the feeling of a physical distance or a wide chasm between two things, like the 'gap between generations' (sedai no hedatari).
両者の間には埋めがたい隔たりがある。(Ryōsha no aida ni wa umegatai hedatari ga aru.)
There is an unbridgeable gap between the two.
By choosing sōi, you are choosing the path of professional clarity. It is the most 'neutral' of the formal terms, making it safe for almost any professional situation where you need to point out that A does not equal B.
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The kanji '違' (i) also appears in 'kimono' related terms like 'chigai-dana' (staggered shelves), showing how the concept of 'offset' or 'difference' is built into Japanese aesthetics.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'sō' too short (like 'so'). It must be a long vowel.
- Pronouncing 'i' like 'ai' (eye). It should be a clear 'ee' sound.
- Mixing it up with 'shōi' (minor injury).
- Using English-style stress on the first syllable.
- Forgetting the vowel length in 'sō'.
난이도
The kanji are relatively common but the word is formal. Easy to read once you know the radicals.
Writing '相' and '違' requires attention to stroke order, especially the 'shinnyū' radical in '違'.
Easy to pronounce, but requires social awareness to use in the correct register.
Clearly pronounced and often appears in formal contexts where speakers speak slowly.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Noun + との相違
事実との相違 (Discrepancy with the facts)
Verb (Plain Form) + ことに相違ない
彼がやったことに相違ない (There's no doubt he did it)
〜と〜の間の相違
理想と現実の間の相違 (The difference between ideal and reality)
相違する (Suru-verb usage)
予想と相違する結果 (Results that differ from expectations)
若干の/重大な + 相違
重大な相違が見つかる (A serious discrepancy is found)
수준별 예문
これは事実と相違ありません。
This is no different from the facts.
相違ありません is the formal negative form of 'to be a difference.'
相違点を見つけてください。
Please find the points of difference.
相違点 (sōiten) means 'points of difference.'
二つの絵に相違がある。
There is a difference in the two pictures.
相違がある is the basic 'there is a difference' structure.
名前の相違に気づきました。
I noticed a discrepancy in the names.
Noun + の + 相違 is a common noun phrase.
相違ないと思います。
I think there is no mistake.
相違ない is a formal way to say 'no doubt' or 'certainly.'
数字に相違はありませんか?
Are there any discrepancies in the numbers?
Question form using the formal negative.
意見の相違は大切です。
Difference of opinion is important.
意見の相違 (iken no sōi) is a very common set phrase.
この事実に相違ない。
There is no doubt about this fact.
Used as a concluding statement of certainty.
両者の間には若干の相違が見られます。
A slight difference can be seen between the two.
若干の (jakkan no) means 'a few' or 'slight.'
報告書と事実に相違があった。
There was a discrepancy between the report and the facts.
Past tense verb 'atta' (there was).
計画と現実に相違が生じた。
A discrepancy arose between the plan and reality.
生じる (shōjiru) is the formal verb for 'to arise' or 'to occur.'
二つのプランの相違点を説明します。
I will explain the differences between the two plans.
説明します (setsumei shimasu) means 'to explain.'
彼が言ったことに相違ありません。
There is no discrepancy in what he said.
Relative clause: 彼が言ったこと (what he said).
金額に相違がある場合はお知らせください。
If there is a discrepancy in the amount, please let us know.
場合は (baai wa) means 'in the case that...'
文化の相違を理解することが必要だ。
It is necessary to understand cultural differences.
理解すること (rikai suru koto) makes 'understanding' into a noun phrase.
その説明には相違点が多い。
There are many points of difference in that explanation.
多い (ōi) means 'many' or 'numerous.'
理論と実験結果の相違を分析する。
Analyze the discrepancy between theory and experimental results.
分析する (bunseki suru) means 'to analyze.'
双方の主張には根本的な相違がある。
There is a fundamental difference in the claims of both parties.
根本的な (konpon-teki na) means 'fundamental' or 'basic.'
このデータは前回のものと相違している。
This data differs from the previous one.
Using 相違する as a verb in the progressive form.
認識の相違を解消するために話し合う。
Discuss in order to resolve the discrepancy in understanding.
解消する (kaishō suru) means 'to resolve' or 'to eliminate.'
契約書の内容に相違がないか確認してください。
Please check if there are any discrepancies in the contract content.
確認してください (kakunin shite kudasai) means 'please confirm.'
期待と現実の相違に戸惑う。
To be bewildered by the discrepancy between expectation and reality.
戸惑う (tomadou) means 'to be bewildered' or 'to be at a loss.'
若干の相違はあるものの、大筋では合意した。
Although there are slight differences, we agreed on the main points.
あるものの (aru mono no) means 'although there is...'
情報の相違が混乱を招いた。
The discrepancy in information led to confusion.
招いた (maneita) means 'invited' or 'led to' (negative results).
鑑定結果は警察の見解と相違していた。
The expert's appraisal differed from the police's view.
鑑定 (kantei) means 'expert opinion' or 'appraisal.'
世代間の価値観の相違を浮き彫りにする。
To bring the difference in values between generations into sharp relief.
浮き彫りにする (ukibori ni suru) means 'to highlight' or 'to bring to the fore.'
統計上の相違は無視できないレベルだ。
The statistical discrepancy is at a level that cannot be ignored.
無視できない (mushi dekinai) means 'cannot be ignored.'
証言の相違が裁判の鍵となった。
The discrepancy in testimony became the key to the trial.
鍵となった (kagi to natta) means 'became the key.'
翻訳におけるニュアンスの相違を議論する。
Discuss the differences in nuance in translation.
における (ni okeru) means 'in' or 'regarding' in a formal way.
供給と需要の相違が価格高騰を招く。
The discrepancy between supply and demand leads to a price surge.
価格高騰 (kakaku kōtō) means 'price surge' or 'soaring prices.'
事実に相違ないことを誓約します。
I pledge that there is no discrepancy from the facts.
誓約します (seiyaku shimasu) means 'to pledge' or 'to swear.'
両国間の歴史認識の相違は深い。
The difference in historical perception between the two countries is deep.
歴史認識 (rekishi ninshiki) means 'historical perception.'
その法解釈には専門家の間でも相違がある。
There are discrepancies even among experts regarding that legal interpretation.
法解釈 (hō-kaishaku) means 'legal interpretation.'
本人の供述と客観的な証拠が相違している。
The individual's statement and the objective evidence are at odds.
客観的な (kyakkan-teki na) means 'objective.'
文化圏による道徳観の相違を考察する。
To consider the differences in moral outlook across cultural spheres.
考察する (kōsatsu suru) means 'to consider' or 'to examine deeply.'
設計図と完成した建物に重大な相違が見つかった。
A serious discrepancy was found between the blueprints and the finished building.
重大な (jūdai na) means 'serious' or 'grave.'
個人の能力の相違を考慮に入れるべきだ。
Differences in individual abilities should be taken into account.
考慮に入れる (kōryo ni ireru) means 'to take into consideration.'
微妙な相違が全体の印象を大きく変える。
Subtle differences significantly change the overall impression.
微妙な (bimyō na) means 'subtle' or 'delicate.'
理想の自分と現実の自分との相違に直面する。
To face the discrepancy between one's ideal self and one's actual self.
直面する (chokumen suru) means 'to face' or 'to confront.'
用語の定義に関する相違が議論を停滞させた。
Discrepancies regarding the definition of terms caused the discussion to stall.
停滞させた (teitai saseta) means 'caused to stall/stagnate.'
各社の財務諸表の記載方法に相違が見受けられる。
Discrepancies can be observed in the reporting methods of each company's financial statements.
見受けられる (miukerareru) is a formal way to say 'can be seen.'
条約の解釈を巡る相違は、国際紛争の火種となり得る。
Discrepancies over the interpretation of treaties can become the sparks of international conflict.
火種となり得る (hidane to nari-uru) means 'can become the sparks/source of trouble.'
古文書の記述と考古学的発見との相違を検証する。
To verify the discrepancies between descriptions in ancient documents and archaeological discoveries.
検証する (kenshō suru) means 'to verify' or 'to inspect.'
認識論的な相違が、両哲学者の決別の原因となった。
An epistemological difference was the cause of the two philosophers' parting of ways.
認識論的 (ninshikiron-teki) means 'epistemological.'
言語体系の相違が思考様式に与える影響は計り知れない。
The influence that differences in language systems have on modes of thought is immeasurable.
計り知れない (hakari-shirenai) means 'immeasurable' or 'unfathomable.'
判例の蓄積により、当初の法意との相違が顕著になった。
Through the accumulation of judicial precedents, the discrepancy with the original legislative intent became prominent.
顕著になった (kencho ni natta) means 'became prominent/striking.'
自己と他者の境界における相違を哲学的に探究する。
To philosophically explore the differences at the boundary between self and other.
探究する (tankyū suru) means 'to explore' or 'to investigate deeply.'
微細な成分の相違が、その名酒の風味を決定づけている。
Minute differences in ingredients determine the flavor of that famous sake.
決定づけている (kettei-zukete iru) means 'is the determining factor.'
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— A difference of opinion. Used in business or politics to describe a disagreement.
意見の相違によりプロジェクトが中断した。
— A discrepancy with the facts. Often used in legal or news contexts.
彼の証言は事実との相違が多い。
— An undeniable fact. A very formal way to emphasize truth.
それは相違ない事実である。
— To look for points of difference. Used in analysis or puzzles.
二つの案の相違点を探してみましょう。
— A few points of difference. A polite way to say things are mostly the same.
若干の相違点はありますが、問題ありません。
— There is a difference in the content. Used when checking documents.
契約書の内容に相違があることに気づいた。
— A misunderstanding or difference in perception occurs.
メールだけでは認識の相違が生じやすい。
— To clarify the differences. Used in logical discussions.
まずは二つの意見の相違を明確にしましょう。
— A significant or grave discrepancy.
重大な相違が見つかり、計画は白紙に戻った。
— There is no discrepancy (extremely polite).
お申し込み内容に相違はございませんか?
자주 혼동되는 단어
Pronounced the same but means 'originality' or 'creative idea.' Context is usually very different.
Means 'minor doctor' or 'unskilled doctor.' Very rare, but phonetically similar.
Means 'business intent.' Very rare.
관용어 및 표현
— Certainly; without doubt. It's so certain that there's no room for a different reality.
彼が犯人に相違ない。
Formal— A difference as great as between clouds and mud. Used for extreme differences.
二人の実力には雲泥の相違がある。
Literary/Formal— A difference as great as between heaven and earth. Similar to 'clouds and mud'.
質において天地の相違がある。
Literary/Formal— Substantially the same with minor differences (Big same, small different).
各社の製品はどれも大同小異だ。
Idiomatic/Four-character compound— As different as the moon and a soft-shell turtle (meaning one is much better than the other).
彼と私では月とすっぽんだ。
Idiomatic/Casual— Appearing similar but being entirely different.
それは似て非なる概念だ。
Formal— The height of inconsistency or disagreement.
彼の言動は不一致の極みだ。
Formal— To show a discrepancy or clash.
証言が食い違いを見せている。
Formal— To create a difference or a gap (often in competition).
ライバルに大きな差をつけた。
Neutral— To draw a line; to be distinctly different from others.
彼の作品は他とは一線を画している。
Formal혼동하기 쉬운
Both mean 'difference.'
Chigai is casual and general. Sōi is formal and implies an objective discrepancy or lack of alignment.
味の違い (casual) vs. データの相違 (formal).
Both involve things not being right.
Machigai is a 'mistake' made by someone. Sōi is the 'state' of two things being different or inconsistent.
計算の間違い (human error) vs. 計算の相違 (mismatch in results).
Both are formal words for difference.
Saii is more technical/statistical, often focusing on the degree of gap. Sōi is broader and used for any formal discrepancy.
統計的差異 (statistical) vs. 意見の相違 (opinion).
Both mean discrepancy.
Sogo implies a 'clash' or 'failure to mesh' that causes problems. Sōi is just the factual difference.
認識の齟齬 (mismatch causing trouble) vs. 認識の相違 (neutral difference).
Both mean inconsistency.
Fuitchi literally means 'non-agreement.' Sōi is slightly more formal and often used to describe the 'points' of difference.
意見の不一致 (disagreement) vs. 相違点 (points of difference).
문장 패턴
[Noun A] と [Noun B] の相違
日本とアメリカの相違 (Difference between Japan and America)
[Noun] に相違が生じる
計算に相違が生じる (A discrepancy arises in the calculation)
[Noun] に相違ない
間違いに相違ない (It's certainly a mistake)
[Fact] と相違する
事実と相違する証言 (Testimony that differs from the facts)
[Noun] の相違を認める
意見の相違を認める (To acknowledge a difference of opinion)
[Abstract Noun] における相違
法解釈における相違 (Differences in legal interpretation)
相違点を明確にする
相違点を明確にする必要がある (It is necessary to clarify the points of difference)
[Noun] との相違を検証する
原本との相違を検証する (Verify the discrepancy with the original)
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
High in professional and written contexts; Low in daily spoken conversation.
-
Using 'sōi' for 'chigai' in casual talk.
→
昨日と今日で天気が違うね。(The weather is different today compared to yesterday.)
Using 'sōi' here would make you sound like a weather satellite.
-
Confusing 'sōi' (difference) with 'machigai' (mistake).
→
答えに間違いがある。(There is a mistake in the answer.)
If a student gets a math problem wrong, it's a 'machigai.' If the student's answer is compared to the teacher's and they don't match, that state is 'sōi.'
-
Writing 'sōi' with the wrong kanji (like 創意).
→
事実との相違 (Discrepancy with the facts)
創意 means 'originality.' Make sure to use the 'differ' (違) kanji.
-
Using 'sōi' when 'sogo' (mismatch) is more appropriate.
→
認識の齟齬でミスが起きた。(A mistake happened due to a mismatch in understanding.)
Sogo is better when the discrepancy leads to a failure or a clash in communication.
-
Thinking 'sōi nai' is casual.
→
間違いありません。(No mistake/Certainly - standard formal.)
'Sōi nai' is very formal, almost legalistic. Don't use it to confirm a lunch order.
팁
Email Etiquette
In business emails, if you find a mistake in a document, use 'sōi' to be diplomatic. 'Naiyō ni sōi ga gozaimasu' (There is a discrepancy in the content) sounds much better than 'You made a mistake.'
Remembering '違'
The kanji '違' has the 'road' radical (辶). Think of it as 'going off the road' or 'taking a different path' to remember it means 'to differ'.
The 'Certainty' Hack
If you want to sound like a tough detective or a serious professional, end your sentence with '...ni sōi nai.' It adds a heavy layer of authority to your statement.
Compound Power
Learn 'sōiten' as a single block. It's used so often in business and school that it's more useful than 'sōi' alone.
Particle Choice
When comparing two things with 'sōi', use 'to' (と). 'A to B no sōi'. This is the standard grammatical bridge.
News Watch
Watch Japanese news (like NHK). You will hear 'sōi' frequently when they discuss political debates or economic data.
The Art of Vagueness
Japanese culture values indirectness. 'Sōi' is a perfect 'vague' word that points out a problem without pointing a finger at a person.
Visual Link
Visualize two identical-looking keys, but one has a tiny notch (the sōi) that makes it not fit the lock.
Formal Reports
In academic writing, use 'sōi' to contrast your findings with previous research. It sounds objective and scholarly.
Avoid Overuse
Don't use 'sōi' for every difference. If you use it too much, your Japanese will sound 'stiff' (katai).
암기하기
기억법
Imagine two 'S' shapes (Sō) that are 'I'ntentionally (i) different. Sō-i = So different!
시각적 연상
Picture a 'Spot the Difference' game in a high-end business office. The differences are the 'Sōi'.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to find three 'sōiten' (differences) between your current Japanese ability and your goal ability, and write them down using the word '相違'.
어원
Borrowed from Middle Chinese. '相' (sō) means mutual or together, and '違' (i) means to go against or differ.
원래 의미: To mutually differ or to be inconsistent with each other.
Sino-Japanese (Kango)문화적 맥락
Be careful not to use 'sōi' in casual settings as it can make you sound cold or overly robotic. It is a 'distancing' word.
In English, we often use 'discrepancy' in similar formal contexts, but we might use 'difference' more broadly. Japanese makes a sharper distinction between casual 'chigai' and formal 'sōi'.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Business Meetings
- 認識の相違がないか確認したいです。
- 前回の提案との相違点は何ですか?
- 若干の相違が生じています。
- 大筋で相違ありません。
Legal/Official Documents
- 事実に相違ないことを誓約します。
- 証言に相違がある。
- 契約内容の相違。
- 相違箇所の修正。
Academic Research
- 先行研究との相違を明示する。
- データの相違を分析する。
- 理論的相違点。
- 顕著な相違が見られる。
Customer Service
- ご注文内容に相違はございませんか?
- 金額に相違があった場合。
- お届けした商品との相違。
- 記載内容の相違について。
News Reporting
- 与野党の意見の相違。
- 発表内容に相違があった。
- 世論との相違。
- 数値の相違を指摘する。
대화 시작하기
"二つのプランの主な相違点は何だと思われますか? (What do you think are the main points of difference between the two plans?)"
"私の認識と相違があるようなのですが、もう一度説明していただけますか? (There seems to be a discrepancy with my understanding; could you explain it once more?)"
"理想のキャリアと現在の状況に相違はありますか? (Is there a discrepancy between your ideal career and your current situation?)"
"この二つの文化の最も大きな相違点は何でしょうか? (What is the biggest point of difference between these two cultures?)"
"報告書の内容に相違がないか、一緒に確認していただけますか? (Could you check with me if there are any discrepancies in the report content?)"
일기 주제
今日の自分の行動と、朝立てた計画の相違について書いてください。 (Write about the discrepancy between your actions today and the plan you made this morning.)
日本に来る前に持っていたイメージと、実際の日本の相違は何ですか? (What are the differences between the image you had of Japan before coming and the actual Japan?)
自分の意見と親の意見に相違があるとき、どう対処しますか? (How do you handle it when there is a difference of opinion between you and your parents?)
仕事(または勉強)において、最も避けたい「認識の相違」は何ですか? (In work or study, what 'discrepancy in understanding' do you want to avoid most?)
十年前の自分と今の自分の価値観の相違について考察してください。 (Examine the difference in values between yourself ten years ago and yourself now.)
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Technically yes, but it sounds very strange. If you say 'Aji no sōi,' it sounds like you are a scientist analyzing chemical components. In daily life, always use 'Aji no chigai.' Save 'sōi' for data, opinions, and facts.
They mean the same thing (certainly/no doubt), but 'sōi nai' is much more formal. You'll see 'sōi nai' in legal contexts, while 'machigai nai' is common in daily conversation and business.
The casual way is 'Machigai-sagashi' (間違い探し). However, in a formal or academic context, you might refer to identifying 'sōiten' (points of difference).
Yes, 'sōi suru' (相違する) is a valid verb meaning 'to differ' or 'to be inconsistent.' For example: 'Jijitsu to sōi suru' (to differ from the facts).
The most common opposite is 'itchi' (一致), which means 'agreement' or 'matching.' Another is 'dōitsu' (同一) meaning 'identical.'
You can use it for 'differences between people's opinions' (iken no sōi) or 'differences in ability' (nōryoku no sōi), but you wouldn't use it to say 'He is different from me' in a personal sense.
Yes, it is typically considered an N2 level word, though it appears in N3 reading materials and is essential for higher levels.
It means 'points of difference.' It's the most common compound word using 'sōi' and is used to list specific ways things are different.
Use 'sogo' when the difference is causing a problem, like a misunderstanding between two people. Use 'sōi' when you are just objectively stating that two things are different.
Only in formal situations like speeches, business meetings, or news broadcasts. In casual talk, it is almost never used.
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Write 'There is no discrepancy' in formal Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Points of difference' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'A discrepancy arose in the calculation.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'There is a difference of opinion between the two.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'I pledge that there is no discrepancy from the facts.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write the kanji for 'sōi'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'difference between A and B' using 'sōi'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'certainly he is the culprit' using 'sōi nai'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'analyze the points of difference'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'resolve the difference in understanding'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'There is a difference' formally.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Is there a discrepancy in the numbers?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'There are many points of difference.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The report differs from the facts.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'A serious discrepancy was found in the blueprints.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'no discrepancy' simply.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Find the differences.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Slight difference.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Acknowledge the difference of opinion.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Statistical discrepancy.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Pronounce '相違' correctly.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'There is no discrepancy' in polite Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Explain 'sōiten' in simple Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Use 'sōi' in a sentence about a business meeting.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Discuss the 'sōi' between two different cultures.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Points of difference'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'I found a difference'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'There is no doubt'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'A discrepancy arose in the data'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Let's clarify the points of difference'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Sōi'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Is it different?' formally.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Difference of opinion'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'It differs from the facts'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Analyze the discrepancy'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'A and B are different' using 'sōi'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Correct' using 'sōi nai'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Slight difference'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Major difference'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Say 'Fundamental difference'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Listen to 'Sōi arimasen'. What does it mean?
Listen to 'Sōiten'. What does it mean?
Listen to 'Iken no sōi'. What context is this?
Listen to 'Jijitsu to sōi'. Is this positive or negative?
Listen to 'Sogo to sōi'. Are they different?
Identify the word: 'Sōi'.
Identify the phrase: 'Sōi nai'.
Identify: 'Jakkan no sōi'.
Identify: 'Sōi ga shōjiru'.
Identify: 'Nishiki no sōi'.
Is 'sōi' high or low pitch at the start?
How many syllables is 'sōi'?
Does 'sōi nai' mean 'maybe'?
What is the verb in 'sōi shite iru'?
What is the modifier in 'konpon-teki na sōi'?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
相違 (sōi) is your go-to word for 'difference' when you want to sound professional or objective. Use it to describe discrepancies in data, facts, or opinions. Example: '報告書に相違はありません' (There are no discrepancies in the report).
- A formal noun meaning 'difference' or 'discrepancy' used in professional Japanese.
- Commonly found in news, legal documents, and business reports to describe inconsistencies.
- Often used in the phrase '相違ない' (sōi nai) to mean 'certainly' or 'no doubt'.
- More objective and analytical than the everyday word '違い' (chigai).
Email Etiquette
In business emails, if you find a mistake in a document, use 'sōi' to be diplomatic. 'Naiyō ni sōi ga gozaimasu' (There is a discrepancy in the content) sounds much better than 'You made a mistake.'
Remembering '違'
The kanji '違' has the 'road' radical (辶). Think of it as 'going off the road' or 'taking a different path' to remember it means 'to differ'.
The 'Certainty' Hack
If you want to sound like a tough detective or a serious professional, end your sentence with '...ni sōi nai.' It adds a heavy layer of authority to your statement.
Compound Power
Learn 'sōiten' as a single block. It's used so often in business and school that it's more useful than 'sōi' alone.
예시
データに相違があります。
관련 콘텐츠
business 관련 단어
遅めに
B1보통보다 조금 늦게. 또는 의도적으로 늦은 시간에.
経理
B1경리는 회사의 돈의 흐름을 기록하고 관리하는 업무입니다.
的確な
B1문제의 핵심을 정확하게 찌르는 지적.
達成する
B1목표를 이루거나 계획한 일을 끝마치는 것. 노력 끝에 얻은 성공을 의미합니다.
活性化
B2어떤 것의 기능을 활발하게 함. 경제나 지역 사회의 활력을 되찾는 일.
付加
B2이미 있는 것에 다른 것을 덧붙임. 가치나 기능을 높이기 위해 사용됨. '제품에 새로운 기능을 부가하다.'
優位性
B2우위성(優位性)은 다른 사람들보다 우월하거나 유리한 위치에 있는 상태를 의미합니다. 기업은 혁신적인 기술을 통해 경쟁 우위(優位性)를 가질 수 있습니다. 스포츠에서는 승리를 위해 신체적 우위(優位性)를 추구합니다.
有利
A2자신에게 이익이 되거나 남보다 좋은 조건에 있는 상태를 의미합니다.
有利に
B1유리하게; 이롭게.
宣伝する
B1상품이나 서비스, 생각 등을 널리 알려서 사람들의 관심을 끄는 것.