B2 Collocation Neutral 4 min read

合意を得る

goui o eru

reach an agreement

Literally: {"\u5408\u610f":"agreement","\u3092":"object particle","\u5f97\u308b":"to get\/obtain"}

In 15 Seconds

  • Successfully reach a shared decision.
  • Implies discussion and consensus building.
  • Used in formal or semi-formal settings.
  • Avoid for casual, everyday agreements.

Meaning

This phrase is all about successfully getting everyone on the same page. It's that moment when a group, a team, or even just two people, finally agree on something after some discussion. Think of it as sealing the deal, getting that official 'yes' that moves things forward. It carries a vibe of accomplishment and collaboration, like finally reaching a summit together.

Key Examples

3 of 12
1

Team meeting wrap-up

プロジェクトの次のステップについて、皆の合意を得ることができました。

We were able to reach everyone's agreement on the next steps for the project.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
2

Negotiating a contract

長時間の交渉の末、ついに両社間で合意を得ました。

After long negotiations, we finally reached an agreement between both companies.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
3

Family discussion about a move

引っ越しについて家族全員の合意を得るのに時間がかかったよ。

It took time to get the agreement of the whole family regarding the move.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>
🌍

Cultural Background

The concept of `合意` (gōi) is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, emphasizing harmony (`和` - wa) and group consensus. Historically, decision-making in communities and businesses often prioritized collective agreement over individual assertion. This phrase reflects that value, highlighting the effort and process required to achieve shared understanding and avoid conflict. It’s a testament to the importance placed on smooth interpersonal relations and unified action.

🎯

Think 'Shared Decision'

Whenever you think of `合意を得る`, imagine a group sitting around a table, discussing, and finally nodding together. It's not just one person deciding; it's a collective 'yes'.

⚠️

Avoid Casual Overkill!

Using `合意を得る` for simple things like deciding on lunch can make you sound like a robot negotiator. Stick to `決める` (kimeru - to decide) or `相談する` (sōdan suru - to consult) for everyday plans.

In 15 Seconds

  • Successfully reach a shared decision.
  • Implies discussion and consensus building.
  • Used in formal or semi-formal settings.
  • Avoid for casual, everyday agreements.

What It Means

合意を得る (gōi o eru) is the Japanese way to say you've successfully reached an agreement. It's not just a casual 'okay,' but a more formal or significant consensus. You've navigated discussions and landed on a shared decision. It implies a process of negotiation or understanding was completed. It’s the feeling of shared purpose solidified.

How To Use It

Use 合意を得る when you've finalized a plan or decision with others. It fits well in business meetings, project discussions, or even serious family planning. You're reporting that consensus has been achieved. It works when you want to highlight the successful conclusion of a deliberation. Think of it as the final stamp of approval.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine your team is brainstorming a new marketing campaign. After a long meeting, everyone agrees on the core strategy. You might say, '新しいキャンペーンの戦略について、チームの合意を得ました。' (Atarashii kyanpēn no senryaku ni tsuite, chīmu no gōi o emashita.) – 'We've reached agreement within the team regarding the new campaign strategy.' Or maybe you're negotiating a contract. Once both sides sign, you've 合意を得た. It's the successful outcome of collaborative effort.

When To Use It

This phrase shines when you need to convey that a formal or semi-formal agreement has been achieved. Use it after negotiations, planning sessions, or any situation where consensus is crucial. It's perfect for reporting progress in a project update. It’s also great for confirming that a decision is final. It signals closure and commitment from all parties involved.

When NOT To Use It

Avoid 合意を得る for everyday, casual agreements. Saying 'Let's grab lunch?' and then 'Okay, 合意を得ました!' sounds way too serious. It's not for simple 'yes' or 'no' answers. It’s also overkill for minor decisions. Don't use it when you're just expressing a personal opinion. It’s for mutual understanding, not individual assent. You wouldn't use it to agree on a movie to watch with a close friend unless you had a huge debate!

Common Mistakes

Using 合意を得る too casually is a big one. It makes you sound overly formal or even a bit stiff. Another mistake is confusing it with simply 'understanding' something. 合意 means shared agreement, not just comprehension. Sometimes people use it when they mean 'to get permission,' which is a different nuance. It’s about mutual consent, not unilateral approval. Remember, it’s a two-way street!

I want to get agreement from my boss. I want to get permission from my boss.
We got agreement on the new plan. We reached an agreement on the new plan.

Similar Expressions

There are other ways to express agreement, but 合意を得る has a specific weight. 賛成する (sansei suru) means 'to agree' or 'to approve,' often more personal. 承諾する (shōdaku suru) is 'to accept' or 'consent,' usually to a request or offer. 同意する (dōi suru) is also 'to agree,' but can sometimes be more about agreeing with a statement or opinion. 合意 implies a more structured process leading to a shared decision, especially in groups.

Common Variations

You'll often see 合意に至る (gōi ni itaru), meaning 'to arrive at an agreement.' It emphasizes the journey to reach the consensus. Another is simply 合意 (gōi) on its own, used as a noun meaning 'agreement.' You might hear 合意形成 (gōi keisei), which means 'consensus building.' These variations highlight different aspects of the agreement process. They add flavor to the core concept.

Memory Trick

💡

Think of 'Go-ee!' – like shouting 'Go!' when you finally get everyone to agree. The 得る (eru) part is like 'earning' that agreement. So, 'Go-ee!' – you earned that agreement! It's like hitting the final level in a game where everyone celebrates. You've successfully 'Go-ee'-ed your way to consensus. It's a victory dance for teamwork!

Quick FAQ

Q. Is 合意を得る formal?

A. Generally, yes. It's used in more serious or official contexts than casual agreement. Think business meetings, not texting your buddy. It implies a structured discussion led to a shared decision. It’s a solid choice for formal reports or official communications. It signals that a deliberate process has concluded successfully.

Q. Can I use it for personal decisions?

A. Not really. It’s best for situations involving two or more people reaching a mutual understanding. If you decide to eat pizza alone, you don't 合意を得る yourself. It’s about shared commitment and collaborative decision-making. You need more than one person for this phrase to make sense. It’s inherently social.

Usage Notes

This phrase is best reserved for situations requiring a formal or semi-formal consensus. Using it in casual chat can sound overly stiff or even humorous. Remember, `合意` implies a mutual understanding reached through discussion, not just a simple 'yes' or unilateral approval.

🎯

Think 'Shared Decision'

Whenever you think of `合意を得る`, imagine a group sitting around a table, discussing, and finally nodding together. It's not just one person deciding; it's a collective 'yes'.

⚠️

Avoid Casual Overkill!

Using `合意を得る` for simple things like deciding on lunch can make you sound like a robot negotiator. Stick to `決める` (kimeru - to decide) or `相談する` (sōdan suru - to consult) for everyday plans.

💬

Harmony is Key

In Japanese culture, `合意` reflects the value placed on group harmony (`和` - wa). Achieving consensus is often prioritized over individual speed, showing respect for everyone's input and maintaining smooth relationships.

💡

Verb Choice Matters

While `得る` (eru - to get) is common, you might see `至る` (itaru - to arrive at) in `合意に至る`. Both mean reaching an agreement, but `至る` emphasizes the journey or process more.

Examples

12
#1 Team meeting wrap-up
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

プロジェクトの次のステップについて、皆の合意を得ることができました。

We were able to reach everyone's agreement on the next steps for the project.

This shows the successful conclusion of a discussion about project direction.

#2 Negotiating a contract
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

長時間の交渉の末、ついに両社間で合意を得ました。

After long negotiations, we finally reached an agreement between both companies.

Highlights the effort involved in reaching a formal agreement.

#3 Family discussion about a move
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

引っ越しについて家族全員の合意を得るのに時間がかかったよ。

It took time to get the agreement of the whole family regarding the move.

Shows a significant decision requiring consensus from multiple people.

#4 Planning a group trip via chat
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

旅行の計画、なんとかみんなの合意を得て決まった!

The travel plans are finally decided, having somehow gotten everyone's agreement!

A more casual use, but still implies a group decision process.

#5 Instagram caption about a project launch
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

チームの努力のおかげで、この素晴らしいプロジェクトのローンチについて合意を得ることができました!✨

Thanks to the team's hard work, we were able to reach an agreement on the launch of this wonderful project! ✨

Celebrates achieving consensus for a shared goal, suitable for social media.

#6 Explaining a decision in a Zoom meeting
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

本日の会議で、新しい業務フローに関する合意を得られました。

In today's meeting, we were able to reach an agreement regarding the new business workflow.

Formal reporting of a decision made in a professional setting.

Mistake: Casual conversation Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ 今日のお昼ご飯、合意を得よう! → ✓ 今日のお昼ご飯、何にするか決めよう!

✗ Let's get agreement for today's lunch! → ✓ Let's decide what to have for lunch today!

Using `合意を得る` for a simple daily decision sounds overly formal and strange.

Mistake: Misunderstanding the nuance Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

✗ 先生の話を聞いて、彼の意見に合意を得た。 → ✓ 先生の話を聞いて、彼の意見に同意した。

✗ After listening to the teacher's talk, I got agreement on his opinion. → ✓ After listening to the teacher's talk, I agreed with his opinion.

`合意を得る` is for reaching a mutual decision, not just agreeing with someone's viewpoint. `同意する` is more appropriate here.

#9 Humorous exaggeration
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

ついに、妻と夕食に何を食べたいかについて合意を得たぞ!奇跡だ!

Finally, I reached an agreement with my wife on what to eat for dinner! It's a miracle!

Humorously applies the phrase to a notoriously difficult negotiation.

#10 Discussing a sensitive topic
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

このデリケートな問題について、慎重に合意を得る努力をしています。

We are making careful efforts to reach an agreement on this sensitive issue.

Emphasizes the careful process needed for agreement on difficult subjects.

#11 Job application follow-up
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

面接官の方から、次の選考ステップについて合意を得られました。

I was able to get agreement from the interviewer about the next selection step.

Used in a professional context to confirm understanding of the process.

#12 Online forum post
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

この提案について、フォーラムのメンバーから合意を得ることは可能でしょうか?

Is it possible to obtain agreement from the forum members regarding this proposal?

Asking about the feasibility of reaching consensus within an online community.

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct word.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 合意

The sentence describes reaching a shared decision after a meeting, which is the core meaning of `合意を得る`.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.

Which sentence correctly uses `合意を得る`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B correctly implies a necessary consensus among stakeholders. Option A is too casual, C uses it instead of `同意する`, and D is an overly formal way to state a daily habit.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

While `合意を得る` is correct, adding `からの` (from) clarifies that the agreement is coming *from* the client, making the sentence flow more naturally in this context.

Translate the following sentence into Japanese.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This translation accurately conveys the necessity of group consensus before moving forward with a plan.

Fill in the blank.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 合意

The phrase implies getting approval or agreement from a superior for a plan, making `合意` the best fit.

Put the words in the correct order to form a natural sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This sentence structure correctly places the subject, object, verb, and modifiers to express successful agreement.

Choose the correct sentence.

Which sentence uses `合意を得る` in the most appropriate context?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B describes a formal agreement with management. Options A and D are too casual, and C is an overly formal way to state a personal habit.

Find and fix the error.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

While `合意` is about reaching a mutual decision, `賛同` (sandō - approval, support) is more fitting when a proposal is simply accepted or supported by many individuals without necessarily a formal negotiation process.

Fill in the blank.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 合意

The context implies needing everyone to agree on new rules, making `合意` the most suitable word.

Translate the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This translation correctly uses `合意を得る` in a business context with a supplier.

Arrange the words into a coherent sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This sentence correctly describes the process of obtaining agreement as being complex.

Select the sentence with the most natural and accurate usage.

Which sentence best captures the nuance of `合意を得る`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: C

Option C correctly shows `合意を得る` used in a significant, formal context (international relations) aiming for a peaceful resolution. A is incorrect as it implies a group effort, B is too casual and transactional, and D misuses the phrase for seeking leniency.

🎉 Score: /12

Visual Learning Aids

Formality Spectrum for 合意を得る

Very Informal

Overly stiff and unnatural for casual chat.

友達と「今日のランチ、合意を得よう!」と言わない。

Informal

Can be used but might sound slightly formal.

グループチャットで「旅行の計画、合意を得ました!」(少し改まった感じ)

Neutral

Standard usage, appropriate for most semi-formal to formal situations.

会議で「新しい方針について合意を得ることができました。」

Formal

Perfect for official reports, business proposals, and formal discussions.

契約締結後、「両社間で最終的な合意を得ました。」

Situations Where 合意を得る is Used

Reaching Agreement (合意を得る)
🤝

Business Meeting

プロジェクトの次のステップについて合意を得る。

💼

Contract Negotiation

価格について合意を得る。

🎨

Team Project

デザインの方向性で合意を得る。

🏠

Family Decision

家の購入について合意を得る。

🕊️

International Relations

和平条約で合意を得る。

📜

Formal Proposal

提案内容について関係者の合意を得る。

Comparing Agreement Phrases

合意を得る (Gōi o eru)
合意 Agreement (noun)
process Implies discussion, negotiation, and reaching a shared decision, often formal.
同意する (Dōi suru)
同意 Consent/Agreement (noun)
opinion Often used to agree with a statement, opinion, or viewpoint.
賛成する (Sansei suru)
賛成 Support/Approval (noun)
proposal Means to support or approve a proposal, plan, or idea.

Nuances of Achieving Agreement

🏛️

Formal Consensus

  • Business deals
  • Legal settlements
  • Policy decisions
👥

Collaborative Planning

  • Team projects
  • Group trip planning
  • Event organization
💬

Personal Understanding

  • Resolving disputes
  • Family discussions
  • Relationship talks
⚙️

Process Emphasis

  • Negotiation
  • Deliberation
  • Consensus building

Practice Bank

12 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct word. Fill Blank beginner

会議で新しいプロジェクトの計画について、皆の ___ を得ました。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 合意

The sentence describes reaching a shared decision after a meeting, which is the core meaning of `合意を得る`.

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly. Choose intermediate

Which sentence correctly uses `合意を得る`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B correctly implies a necessary consensus among stakeholders. Option A is too casual, C uses it instead of `同意する`, and D is an overly formal way to state a daily habit.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Find and fix the mistake:

私たちは、この新しいデザインについて、クライアントの合意を得たいです。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 私たちは、この新しいデザインについて、クライアントからの合意を得たいです。

While `合意を得る` is correct, adding `からの` (from) clarifies that the agreement is coming *from* the client, making the sentence flow more naturally in this context.

Translate the following sentence into Japanese. Translate advanced

It is crucial to obtain the agreement of all team members before proceeding.

Hints: Think about 'crucial' and 'proceeding'., Use the phrase `合意を得る`.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 進む前に、全チームメンバーの合意を得ることが不可欠です。

This translation accurately conveys the necessity of group consensus before moving forward with a plan.

Fill in the blank. Fill Blank beginner

この計画を実行するには、まず上司の ___ を得る必要があります。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 合意

The phrase implies getting approval or agreement from a superior for a plan, making `合意` the best fit.

Put the words in the correct order to form a natural sentence. Reorder intermediate

Arrange the words in the correct order:

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我々は、プロジェクトについての合意を得ることに成功した。

This sentence structure correctly places the subject, object, verb, and modifiers to express successful agreement.

Choose the correct sentence. Choose intermediate

Which sentence uses `合意を得る` in the most appropriate context?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: B

Option B describes a formal agreement with management. Options A and D are too casual, and C is an overly formal way to state a personal habit.

Find and fix the error. Error Fix advanced

Find and fix the mistake:

この提案は、最終的に多くの人々の合意を得て承認された。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: この提案は、最終的に多くの人々の賛同を得て承認された。

While `合意` is about reaching a mutual decision, `賛同` (sandō - approval, support) is more fitting when a proposal is simply accepted or supported by many individuals without necessarily a formal negotiation process.

Fill in the blank. Fill Blank beginner

新しいルールについて、チーム全員の ___ を得ることが重要です。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 合意

The context implies needing everyone to agree on new rules, making `合意` the most suitable word.

Translate the sentence. Translate intermediate

We need to reach an agreement with the supplier soon.

Hints: Consider 'supplier' and 'soon'., The core phrase is 'reach an agreement'.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: できるだけ早く、供給業者と合意を得る必要があります。

This translation correctly uses `合意を得る` in a business context with a supplier.

Arrange the words into a coherent sentence. Reorder advanced

Arrange the words in the correct order:

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: このための合意を得るプロセスは複雑です。

This sentence correctly describes the process of obtaining agreement as being complex.

Select the sentence with the most natural and accurate usage. Choose advanced

Which sentence best captures the nuance of `合意を得る`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: C

Option C correctly shows `合意を得る` used in a significant, formal context (international relations) aiming for a peaceful resolution. A is incorrect as it implies a group effort, B is too casual and transactional, and D misuses the phrase for seeking leniency.

🎉 Score: /12

Frequently Asked Questions

21 questions

The basic meaning of 合意を得る (gōi o eru) is to successfully reach an agreement or consensus with others. It implies that a discussion or negotiation has taken place, and a mutual understanding or decision has been achieved by all parties involved. It's about getting that collective 'yes'.

You should use 合意を得る when you want to convey that a formal or semi-formal agreement has been finalized after some discussion. It's suitable for situations like business meetings, project planning, contract negotiations, or any scenario where obtaining a shared decision is important. It signals the conclusion of a collaborative process.

Yes, 合意を得る leans towards the formal side. While not extremely stiff, it's generally used in situations that require a degree of seriousness or officiality. You wouldn't typically use it in very casual conversations with close friends, as it implies a more structured process than a simple 'okay'.

The main difference lies in the nature of the agreement. 合意を得る focuses on reaching a mutual decision or consensus, often through discussion or negotiation, especially within a group. 同意する (dōi suru) is more about agreeing with a specific statement, opinion, or proposal made by someone else. You 合意 on a plan, but you 同意 with a viewpoint.

It's generally not recommended to use 合意を得る for very casual, everyday decisions. For example, deciding what to eat for lunch with a friend doesn't usually require 'obtaining an agreement.' Using it in such contexts would sound overly formal and unnatural. Stick to simpler verbs like 決める (to decide) for casual choices.

The verb 得る (eru) literally means 'to get' or 'to obtain.' So, 合意を得る translates literally to 'to obtain agreement.' It emphasizes the successful acquisition or achievement of that agreement after the preceding efforts or discussions.

Yes, you might encounter 合意に至る (gōi ni itaru), which means 'to arrive at an agreement,' highlighting the process of reaching the consensus. The noun form 合意 (gōi) itself means 'agreement' and is frequently used. 合意形成 (gōi keisei) refers to the act or process of building consensus.

A frequent mistake is using 合意を得る in situations that are too informal. For instance, saying 'I got agreement from my mom to go out' would sound strange; 許可を得る (to get permission) or simply OKをもらう (to get an OK) would be more natural. It's about applying the phrase to contexts that match its level of formality and meaning.

It often does, yes. While not always the case, the phrase suggests that some level of discussion, negotiation, or deliberation was necessary to reach the agreement. It's rarely used for instantaneous decisions, implying a journey towards mutual understanding.

The emphasis on 合意 reflects the cultural value placed on group harmony ( - wa) and consensus-building. In many Japanese contexts, decisions are made collectively, and achieving agreement is crucial for maintaining smooth relationships and ensuring unified action, which is highly valued.

Yes, it can be used in spoken Japanese, but typically in more formal settings like business meetings, presentations, or official discussions. You might hear it in spoken news reports or during formal briefings. It's less common in casual, everyday conversations among friends or family.

While both involve acceptance, 合意 (gōi) implies a mutual agreement reached through discussion between parties, suggesting collaboration. 承認 (shōnin) is more about approval or authorization, often given by someone in a position of authority to a proposal or request. You might get 合意 from your team, but 承認 from your boss.

There isn't a single perfect antonym that's commonly used. However, situations where agreement is *not* reached could be described using phrases like 意見が対立する (iken ga tairitsu suru - opinions clash) or 合意に至らない (gōi ni itaranai - fail to reach an agreement). These describe the absence of consensus.

No, 合意を得る specifically means reaching a *shared* agreement or decision. It's not about personal understanding or comprehension. If you understand a concept, you 理解する (rikai suru). If you agree with someone's opinion, you 同意する (dōi suru). 合意 requires mutual consent.

If only one person needs to approve something, especially someone in authority, you'd typically use 許可を得る (kyoka o eru - to get permission) or 承認を得る (shōnin o eru - to get approval/authorization). 合意を得る strongly implies a mutual agreement between multiple parties.

Practice by role-playing scenarios like a business meeting or a negotiation. Try writing short dialogues where characters need to discuss and finalize a plan. Pay attention to the context – is it a formal setting? Are multiple people involved? Does it involve reaching a shared decision? This helps internalize the appropriate usage.

合意 (gōi) refers to a mutual agreement or consensus reached, usually after discussion or negotiation, implying shared decision-making. 賛成 (sansei) means to support or approve of a proposal, plan, or opinion. You might 賛成 someone's idea, but you 合意 on the final plan based on multiple ideas.

Yes, it can be used in online communication, particularly in professional contexts like work emails, project management tools (like Slack channels for work), or formal forum discussions where decisions are being made. It's less common in very casual chats or social media posts unless the topic itself is formal.

If the agreement is very simple and immediate, 合意を得る might still feel a bit too formal. For instance, agreeing to meet at a specific time might just be 約束する (yakusoku suru - to make a promise) or 決める (kimeru - to decide). 合意 implies a process, even if short.

Using 合意を得る when only one person’s approval is needed is a mistake. For example, saying 'I need to obtain the agreement of the CEO for this budget' is less precise than 'I need to obtain the CEO's approval/authorization for this budget' (CEOの承認を得る必要があります). 合意 implies reciprocity.

The nuance of 'obtaining' (得る) suggests that the agreement wasn't automatic. It implies that effort, discussion, or negotiation was required to achieve it. It highlights the successful completion of a process that led to the consensus.

Related Phrases

🔗

同意する

related topic

to agree (with a statement/opinion)

Both involve agreement, but `同意する` typically refers to concurring with a specific viewpoint or statement, whereas `合意を得る` implies a broader consensus on a plan or decision.

🔗

賛成する

related topic

to approve, to be in favor of

While `賛成する` means to support or approve of something, `合意を得る` emphasizes the process of reaching a mutual decision among multiple parties.

🔗

承諾する

related topic

to accept, to consent (to a request)

`承諾する` often involves accepting an offer or request, implying a more passive acceptance compared to the active consensus-building inherent in `合意を得る`.

🔗

相談する

related topic

to consult, to discuss

Consulting or discussing (`相談する`) is often a necessary step *before* one can `合意を得る`, highlighting the preparatory actions leading to agreement.

🔗

交渉する

related topic

to negotiate

Negotiation (`交渉する`) is frequently the process undertaken to `合意を得る`, especially in business or formal contexts where compromise is needed.

🔗

意見が一致する

related topic

opinions match/coincide

This phrase describes a state where opinions align, which is often a prerequisite or result of `合意を得る`, focusing on the alignment of thoughts.

👔

合意に至る

formal version

to arrive at an agreement

This is a common variation that emphasizes the journey or process of reaching the agreement, rather than just the act of obtaining it.

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!