同調 in 30 Seconds
- 同調 means aligning with others, whether in opinion, action, or frequency.
- It can describe social conformity, emotional resonance, or technical tuning.
- Use it when people agree, share feelings, or a device matches a signal.
- Context is key: social, technical, or emotional situations.
Understanding 同調 (Dōchō)
The Japanese word 同調 (dōchō) is a noun that carries the meaning of aligning oneself with others, whether in terms of opinions, actions, or even more abstractly, in terms of frequency or resonance. It signifies a state of harmony or agreement with a group, a prevailing sentiment, or a specific wavelength. This concept can be applied in various social and technical contexts, making it a versatile term in Japanese.
- Social Alignment
- In social situations, 同調 often refers to conforming to the opinions or behaviors of a group. This can be a conscious decision to fit in or an unconscious mirroring of those around you. For instance, if everyone in a meeting agrees on a certain point, one might express their 同調 with the group's consensus.
- Emotional Resonance
- It can also describe an emotional connection or empathy. When you feel that your emotions are in sync with someone else's, you are experiencing a form of 同調. This is particularly relevant in understanding interpersonal relationships and group dynamics.
- Technical Applications
- Beyond human interaction, 同調 is used in technical fields. For example, in electronics or physics, it can mean tuning into a specific frequency or synchronizing with a particular oscillation. A radio receiver, for instance, achieves 同調 when it is set to the broadcast frequency.
会議で彼らの意見に同調する人が多かった。
Kaikigi de karera no iken ni dōchō suru hito ga ōkatta.
その音楽は私の気分と同調していた。
Sono ongaku wa watashi no kibun to dōchō shite ita.
ラジオの周波数を同調させる必要がある。
Rajio no shūhasū o dōchō saseru hitsuyō ga aru.
Understanding 同調 involves recognizing its dual nature: the act of fitting in with people and the act of matching with a specific signal or wave. This duality makes it a rich word to explore for anyone learning Japanese.
Mastering 同調 in Context
Using 同調 effectively in Japanese sentences requires understanding its various applications, from social conformity to technical tuning. Here's a breakdown of how it's employed:
- Expressing Agreement and Conformity
- The most common use of 同調 is to describe aligning one's views or actions with a group. This can be expressed using the verb form 同調する (dōchō suru) or the noun form 同調 itself, often with the particle に (ni) indicating what one is aligning with.
彼の提案に同調しました。
Kare no teian ni dōchō shimashita.
集団の意見に同調することは、必ずしも悪いことではない。
Shūdan no iken ni dōchō suru koto wa, kanarazushimo warui koto de wa nai.
- Describing Emotional or Psychological Resonance
- 同調 can describe a feeling of being in sync with someone's emotions or a shared atmosphere. This usage often implies empathy or a similar emotional state.
彼女の悲しみに同調して、私も涙ぐんだ。
Kanojo no kanashimi ni dōchō shite, watashi mo namidagunda.
会場全体が興奮と同調していた。
Kaijō zentai ga kōfun to dōchō shite ita.
- In Technical and Scientific Contexts
- In fields like engineering, physics, or radio communication, 同調 refers to tuning into a specific frequency or achieving resonance.
その装置は特定の周波数に同調するように設計されている。
Sono sōchi wa tokutei no shūhasū ni dōchō suru yō ni sekkei sarete iru.
共振回路は、外部信号に同調すると大きな振幅を示す。
Kyōshin kairo wa, gaibu shingō ni dōchō suru to ōkina shinpuku o shimesu.
By practicing these sentence structures, you can confidently use 同調 in a variety of contexts, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the word.
Real-World Encounters with 同調
The word 同調 (dōchō) is not confined to textbooks; it appears in various real-life scenarios, reflecting its importance in understanding social dynamics and technical concepts. Here's where you're likely to encounter it:
- News and Media Discussions
- You'll often hear 同調 in discussions about public opinion, political movements, or social trends. Journalists and commentators use it to describe how individuals or groups align with prevailing sentiments or ideologies. For example, a report might discuss the 同調 of young voters with a particular party's platform.
国民の多くが政府の政策に同調しているという報道があった。
Kokumin no ōku ga seifu no seisaku ni dōchō shite iru to iu hōdō ga atta.
- Business and Workplace Environments
- In corporate settings, 同調 can refer to employees aligning with company culture, management's decisions, or team objectives. It might be used in discussions about teamwork, corporate strategy, or the importance of maintaining a unified front.
新しいプロジェクトでは、チームメンバー全員の同調が不可欠だ。
Atarashii purojekuto de wa, chīmu menbā zen'in no dōchō ga fukaketsu da.
- Technical Discussions (Engineering, Physics, IT)
- In technical fields, 同調 is a standard term. You'll hear it when engineers discuss tuning radio signals, calibrating instruments, or synchronizing systems. For example, a radio operator might talk about achieving 同調 with a distant station.
この受信機は、様々な無線信号に同調できます。
Kono jushinki wa, samazama na musen shingō ni dōchō dekimasu.
- Psychology and Sociology
- Academic discussions on group behavior, conformity, and social influence frequently use 同調. Researchers might analyze the psychological mechanisms behind group 同調 or its impact on individual decision-making.
集団心理学では、同調現象が重要な研究テーマとなっている。
Shūdan shinrigaku de wa, dōchō genshō ga jūyō na kenkyū tēma to natte iru.
By being aware of these contexts, you can better anticipate and understand the use of 同調 in your Japanese learning journey.
Avoiding Pitfalls with 同調
While 同調 (dōchō) is a useful word, learners can sometimes misuse it or confuse it with similar concepts. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Confusing with Simple Agreement
- Mistake: Using 同調 when a simpler word for agreement, like 賛成 (sansei - approval, agreement) or 同意 (dōi - consent, agreement), would be more appropriate. 同調 implies a deeper alignment, often with a group or a prevailing trend, rather than just agreeing to a specific point.
Incorrect: 彼の意見に同調しました。
Kare no iken ni dōchō shimashita. (When it was just a simple agreement with one person's opinion.)Correct: 彼の意見に賛成しました。
Kare no iken ni sansei shimashita.
- Overuse in Personal Conversations
- Mistake: Applying 同調 too broadly in casual, personal conversations where simpler expressions of empathy or understanding are more natural. While 同調 can mean emotional resonance, using it excessively might sound overly formal or academic.
Informal: あなたの気持ちに同調します。
Anata no kimochi ni dōchō shimasu.More natural: あなたの気持ち、わかります。
Anata no kimochi, wakarimasu. (I understand your feelings.) or あなたの気持ちに寄り添います。
Anata no kimochi ni yorisoimasu. (I will empathize with your feelings.)
- Misapplying Technical Meanings Socially
- Mistake: Using the technical sense of tuning to a frequency in a social context where it doesn't fit. For example, saying someone is 同調 with a person's voice might be technically accurate if referring to sound waves, but it's not how you'd express understanding or agreement.
Incorrect: 彼の声に同調して話した。
Kare no koe ni dōchō shite hanashita.Meaning: Spoke in sync with his voice (e.g., mirroring his tone or rhythm).
- Ignoring the Nuance of Conformity
- Mistake: Using 同調 to mean blind obedience or unquestioning acceptance. While it can describe conformity, it doesn't always carry a negative connotation of lacking critical thinking. Sometimes, it's simply about effective collaboration or maintaining social harmony.
Incorrect: 彼は何も考えずに同調した。
Kare wa nani mo kangaezu ni dōchō shita. (This might be true, but 同調 itself doesn't inherently mean 'without thinking'.)More precise: 彼は何も考えずに盲従した。
Kare wa nani mo kangaezu ni mōjū shita. (He blindly followed.)
Being mindful of these potential errors will help you use 同調 more accurately and effectively in your Japanese conversations and writing.
Nuances: 同調 vs. Other Terms
Understanding 同調 (dōchō) is made easier by comparing it with similar Japanese words. Each term carries a slightly different nuance, making them suitable for distinct situations.
- 同調 (Dōchō) vs. 賛成 (Sansei)
-
同調 (dōchō): Implies aligning one's opinions, actions, or even feelings with a group or a prevailing trend. It can suggest conformity, shared sentiment, or resonance. It often involves a broader sense of fitting in or being on the same wavelength.
賛成 (sansei): Means 'agreement' or 'approval' regarding a specific proposal, idea, or opinion. It's typically a direct response to a proposition, indicating support for it. It's more about saying 'yes' to something concrete.
Example Comparison:
会議で、彼の意見に同調する人が多かった。
Kaigi de, kare no iken ni dōchō suru hito ga ōkatta. (Many people in the meeting agreed with his opinion, aligning their views.)会議で、彼の意見に賛成する人が多かった。
Kaigi de, kare no iken ni sansei suru hito ga ōkatta. (Many people in the meeting approved of his opinion.)
- 同調 (Dōchō) vs. 同意 (Dōi)
-
同調 (dōchō): As mentioned, it's about alignment, conformity, or resonance. It can be passive or active, and often involves a group dynamic or a shared wavelength.
同意 (dōi): Refers to 'consent' or 'agreement' in a more formal or legal sense. It implies reaching a mutual understanding or giving permission. It's about explicitly agreeing to terms or a decision.
Example Comparison:
時代の流れに同調する。
Jidai no nagare ni dōchō suru. (To go with the flow of the times.)契約内容に同意する。
Keiyaku naiyō ni dōi suru. (To agree to the contract terms.)
- 同調 (Dōchō) vs. 共感 (Kyōkan)
-
同調 (dōchō): Can include emotional resonance, but it's broader. It can be about aligning actions or opinions, not just feelings.
共感 (kyōkan): Specifically means 'empathy' or 'sympathy'. It's about understanding and sharing the feelings of another person. It is a subset of the emotional aspect of 同調.
Example Comparison:
観客は俳優の感情に同調していた。
Kankyaku wa haiyū no kanjō ni dōchō shite ita. (The audience was in sync with the actor's emotions.)観客は俳優の悲しみに共感していた。
Kankyaku wa haiyū no kanashimi ni kyōkan shite ita. (The audience empathized with the actor's sadness.)
- 同調 (Dōchō) vs. 協調 (Kyōchō)
-
同調 (dōchō): Focuses on aligning or harmonizing, often with existing trends or group opinions.
協調 (kyōchō): Means 'cooperation' or 'coordination'. It emphasizes working together actively to achieve a common goal. It's about collaborative effort.
Example Comparison:
チームとして、皆の意見に同調して進めましょう。
Chīmu to shite, mina no iken ni dōchō shite susumemashō. (As a team, let's proceed by aligning with everyone's opinions.)チームとして、目標達成のために協調して働きましょう。
Chīmu to shite, mokuhyō tassei no tame ni kyōchō shite hatarakimashō. (As a team, let's work cooperatively to achieve the goal.)
By understanding these distinctions, you can choose the most precise word to convey your intended meaning in Japanese.
How Formal Is It?
"政策への国民の<strong>同調</strong>を促すための広報活動が展開された。"
"会議では、皆が同じ意見に<strong>同調</strong>しました。"
"まあ、みんながそう言うなら<strong>同調</strong>しとくか。"
"みんなで同じ歌を歌って、<strong>同調</strong>しようね！"
"あのグループ、完全に空気に<strong>同調</strong>してたわ。"
Fun Fact
The concept of 'tuning in' or 'being on the same wavelength' is universal. In Japanese, 同調 beautifully captures this idea by combining the notions of 'sameness' (同) and 'harmony/tune' (調). It's a word that elegantly bridges technical and social meanings.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing it as 'do-cho' with equal stress on both syllables.
- Using an incorrect vowel sound for 'o' in 'do' or 'cho'.
- Not clearly enunciating the final 'o' sound.
Difficulty Rating
Understanding 同調 in reading requires recognizing its context, as it can refer to social conformity, emotional resonance, or technical tuning. Texts discussing psychology, sociology, or technology will frequently use it. Learners need to differentiate its various meanings based on the surrounding vocabulary and grammatical structures.
Using 同調 accurately in writing demands careful consideration of the context. Overusing it or applying it in the wrong register can lead to awkward phrasing. Learners should practice using it in sentences that reflect its different meanings.
Speaking with 同調 requires natural integration into conversation. Learners might struggle with choosing the right nuance – whether it's genuine agreement, emotional empathy, or technical tuning. Practicing with native speakers is beneficial.
Distinguishing 同調 from similar words like 賛成 or 共感 in spoken Japanese can be challenging. Learners need to pay attention to the speaker's tone and the overall context to grasp the intended meaning.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using the potential form 同調できる (dōchō dekiru - can align) or 同調させられる (dōchō saserareru - can be made to align)
この機械は、特定の信号に同調できる。 Kono kikai wa, tokutei no shingō ni dōchō dekiru. (This machine can tune to a specific signal.)
Using the causative form 同調させる (dōchō saseru - to make align/tune)
リーダーは部下たちをプロジェクトの目標に同調させた。 Rīdā wa buka-tachi o purojekuto no mokuhyō ni dōchō saseta. (The leader made the subordinates align with the project's goals.)
Using the passive form 同調される (dōchō sareru - to be aligned/made to align)
集団圧力によって、彼の意見も同調された。 Shūdan atsuryoku ni yotte, kare no iken mo dōchō sareta. (His opinion was also aligned due to group pressure.)
Using the nominalizer こと (koto) or の (no) with 同調する
皆に同調することは、必ずしも悪いことではない。 Minna ni dōchō suru koto wa, kanarazushimo warui koto de wa nai. (Aligning with everyone is not necessarily a bad thing.)
Using conjunctions like が (ga - but) or しかし (shikashi - however) to contrast alignment with other actions
彼の意見に同調したが、本当は違うと思っていた。 Kare no iken ni dōchō shita ga, hontō wa chigau to omotte ita. (I aligned with his opinion, but I actually thought differently.)
Examples by Level
はい、私もそう思います。
Yes, I think so too.
Simple agreement.
みんなと同じです。
I am the same as everyone.
Expressing being the same as others.
この音楽、いいですね。
This music is nice, isn't it?
Simple shared appreciation.
私も同じ気持ちです。
I feel the same way.
Expressing shared feelings.
はい、大丈夫です。
Yes, it's okay.
Simple affirmation.
みんな、行きますか？
Is everyone going?
Asking about group consensus.
私も食べたいです。
I want to eat too.
Expressing a shared desire.
はい、わかりました。
Yes, I understood.
Simple acknowledgment.
彼らの意見に同調しました。
I agreed with their opinions.
Using 同調する (dōchō suru) for agreement.
みんなと同じように行動しました。
I acted the same as everyone else.
Describing conforming behavior.
この歌は私の気分と合っています。
This song matches my mood.
Describing resonance with music.
私も同じ考えです。
I have the same idea.
Expressing shared thoughts.
ラジオの周波数を合わせました。
I tuned the radio frequency.
Simple action of tuning.
集団の意見に合わせることが大切です。
It is important to align with the group's opinion.
Stating the importance of group alignment.
その場の雰囲気に同調しました。
I went along with the atmosphere of the place.
Adapting to the mood.
彼の提案に同調して、私も賛成しました。
Agreeing with his proposal, I also approved.
Combining alignment with explicit agreement.
会議で、多くの参加者が新しい方針に同調しました。
In the meeting, many participants aligned with the new policy.
Using 同調 with a specific policy.
若者の間では、ある特定のライフスタイルへの同調が見られる。
Among young people, there is an alignment with a certain specific lifestyle.
Describing alignment with a lifestyle trend.
彼の悲しみは、私の過去の経験と同調していた。
His sadness resonated with my past experiences.
Emotional resonance with personal experience.
この技術は、最新の周波数規格に同調するように設計されている。
This technology is designed to tune into the latest frequency standards.
Technical application of tuning.
集団圧力によって、個人の意見が同調させられることがある。
Individual opinions can be made to align due to group pressure.
Conformity under pressure.
彼女の熱意に同調し、私もプロジェクトに参加することを決めた。
Aligning with her enthusiasm, I also decided to join the project.
Being motivated by someone's enthusiasm.
このドキュメンタリーは、現代社会の不安と同調している。
This documentary resonates with the anxieties of modern society.
Media reflecting societal feelings.
受信機を目的の信号に同調させる。
Tune the receiver to the target signal.
Action of tuning a receiver.
社会的な規範への同調は、集団の安定に寄与する一方で、個人の創造性を阻害する可能性もある。
While alignment with social norms contributes to group stability, it also has the potential to inhibit individual creativity.
Discussing the dual nature of social alignment.
彼のスピーチは、聴衆の感情的な高揚感と巧みに同調していた。
His speech skillfully resonated with the audience's emotional high.
Skillful emotional resonance with an audience.
この新しい通信プロトコルは、既存のシステムとの同調性を高めるために開発された。
This new communication protocol was developed to enhance its alignment with existing systems.
Technical alignment for compatibility.
SNS上での意見の同調現象は、フィルターバブルを形成する一因となりうる。
The phenomenon of opinion alignment on social media can contribute to the formation of filter bubbles.
Social media trend and its consequences.
アーティストは、しばしば社会の抱える問題に同調し、それを作品に昇華させる。
Artists often resonate with societal issues and sublimate them into their work.
Artistic response to societal issues.
文化的な背景の違いから、意図せず同調しない状況が生じることがある。
Due to differences in cultural backgrounds, situations where alignment does not occur unintentionally can arise.
Cultural differences affecting alignment.
共振回路は、特定の周波数に同調した際に、エネルギーを効率的に吸収する。
A resonant circuit efficiently absorbs energy when it tunes to a specific frequency.
Physics concept of resonance and energy absorption.
リーダーシップにおいては、部下の意見に耳を傾け、適切な同調を示すことが重要である。
In leadership, it is important to listen to subordinates' opinions and show appropriate alignment.
Leadership skill of showing alignment.
大衆心理における同調圧力は、個人の意思決定プロセスに無視できない影響を与える。
Conformity pressure in mass psychology has a non-negligible impact on individual decision-making processes.
Psychological analysis of conformity.
その演劇は、現代社会が抱える疎外感と深い同調を見せた。
That play displayed a deep resonance with the alienation experienced by modern society.
Artistic commentary on societal alienation.
技術革新においては、既存のインフラストラクチャとの互換性を確保するための同調戦略が不可欠である。
In technological innovation, alignment strategies to ensure compatibility with existing infrastructure are indispensable.
Strategic alignment in technological development.
メディアによる世論形成における同調効果は、しばしば批判的な分析の対象となる。
The alignment effect in public opinion formation by the media often becomes the subject of critical analysis.
Media influence and critical analysis.
集団思考の罠に陥らないためには、意識的に多様な意見との同調を避ける必要がある。
To avoid falling into the trap of groupthink, it is necessary to consciously avoid alignment with diverse opinions.
Avoiding groupthink by resisting alignment.
音楽療法では、患者の感情状態と音楽の周波数を同調させることで治療効果を高める。
In music therapy, therapeutic effects are enhanced by aligning the patient's emotional state with the music's frequency.
Therapeutic application of resonance.
政治的な言説における同調圧力は、健全な民主主義の発展を妨げる要因となりうる。
Conformity pressure in political discourse can be a factor hindering the development of healthy democracy.
Political science perspective on conformity.
その建築デザインは、周囲の景観と調和し、視覚的な同調を生み出している。
That architectural design harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, creating visual resonance.
Aesthetic alignment in design.
集団力学における同調行動の根源を探ることは、社会心理学における永続的な課題である。
Exploring the roots of conformity behavior in group dynamics is an enduring challenge in social psychology.
Deep dive into the origins of conformity.
情報過多の現代社会において、個々人が何に同調するかは、その人の価値観や知的好奇心のあり方を如実に示している。
In today's information-saturated society, what individuals align with vividly demonstrates their values and intellectual curiosity.
Information overload and value alignment.
技術的特異点に達する未来において、人類と人工知能との間の同調メカニズムの確立が極めて重要になるだろう。
In a future reaching technological singularity, establishing a mechanism for alignment between humanity and artificial intelligence will be extremely important.
Futuristic technological alignment.
文化相対主義の観点からは、ある文化における同調行動を、別の文化の価値観で一方的に評価することは避けるべきである。
From the perspective of cultural relativism, it is advisable to avoid unilaterally evaluating conformity behavior in one culture by the values of another.
Cultural relativism and conformity.
意識の量子的な性質に関する仮説では、個人の意識と宇宙全体の同調の可能性が示唆されている。
Hypotheses regarding the quantum nature of consciousness suggest the possibility of alignment between individual consciousness and the entire universe.
Philosophical/scientific speculation on universal alignment.
経済的変動の極端な状況下では、投資家心理の同調が市場のボラティリティを増幅させる傾向がある。
Under extreme economic fluctuations, the alignment of investor psychology tends to amplify market volatility.
Economic psychology and market volatility.
芸術表現における同調は、単なる模倣ではなく、内面的な共鳴と創造的な解釈を経て生まれるものである。
Alignment in artistic expression is not mere imitation but is born through inner resonance and creative interpretation.
Artistic alignment as a creative process.
グローバル化が進む現代において、異文化間の摩擦を軽減するためには、相互理解に基づいた同調が不可欠である。
In the modern era of increasing globalization, alignment based on mutual understanding is indispensable for reducing friction between different cultures.
Intercultural understanding and alignment.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Conformity pressure; the pressure to align one's opinions or behaviors with those of a group.
集団からの<strong>同調圧力</strong>に負けて、本当の意見を言えなかった。 Shūdan kara no <strong>dōchō atsuryoku</strong> ni makete, hontō no iken o ienakatta. (Unable to state my true opinion, I succumbed to the conformity pressure from the group.)
— The alignment effect; the phenomenon where individuals tend to align their behavior or opinions with those of others.
メディアの報道は、人々の意見に<strong>同調効果</strong>をもたらすことがある。 Media no hōdō wa, hitobito no iken ni <strong>dōchō kōka</strong> o motarasu koto ga aru. (Media reports can bring about an alignment effect on people's opinions.)
— Alignment of opinions; a state where people share similar views.
会議では、参加者間の<strong>意見の同調</strong>がスムーズな議論につながった。 Kaigi de wa, sankasha kan no <strong>iken no dōchō</strong> ga sūmuzu na giron ni tsunagatta. (In the meeting, the alignment of opinions among participants led to a smooth discussion.)
— Emotional alignment; a state of sharing or resonating with others' feelings.
彼のスピーチは、聴衆との<strong>感情の同調</strong>を生み出した。 Kare no supīchi wa, chōshū to no <strong>kanjō no dōchō</strong> o umidashita. (His speech created emotional alignment with the audience.)
— Frequency tuning; the act of adjusting a device to match a specific radio frequency.
ラジオの<strong>周波数の同調</strong>がうまくいかない。 Rajio no <strong>shūhasū no dōchō</strong> ga umaku ikanai. (The frequency tuning of the radio is not working well.)
— To align, to conform, to tune in.
皆が賛成するなら、私も<strong>同調する</strong>つもりだ。 Minna ga sansei suru nara, watashi mo <strong>dōchō suru</strong> tsumori da. (If everyone agrees, I intend to align as well.)
— To make something align, to cause conformity, to tune (a device).
この機械は、特定の信号に<strong>同調させる</strong>必要がある。 Kono kikai wa, tokutei no shingō ni <strong>dōchō saseru</strong> hitsuyō ga aru. (This machine needs to be tuned to a specific signal.)
— Not aligning, not conforming, not tuning.
周りの意見に<strong>同調しない</strong>勇気も大切だ。 Mawari no iken ni <strong>dōchō shinai</strong> yūki mo taisetsu da. (It is also important to have the courage not to conform to the opinions of those around you.)
— To seek alignment or conformity.
リーダーは部下に<strong>同調を求めた</strong>。 Rīdā wa buka ni <strong>dōchō o motometa</strong>. (The leader sought alignment from the subordinates.)
— Difficult to align or conform.
彼の考え方には、なかなか<strong>同調が難しい</strong>。 Kare no kangae-kata ni wa, nakanaka <strong>dōchō ga muzukashii</strong>. (It is quite difficult to align with his way of thinking.)
Often Confused With
While both imply agreement, 賛成 is a direct affirmation of a specific point, whereas 同調 suggests aligning with a broader trend, group opinion, or feeling.
共感 specifically refers to sharing feelings (empathy). 同調 can include emotional resonance but also encompasses aligning actions and opinions, and technical tuning.
協調 means cooperation and active teamwork towards a goal. 同調 is more about harmonizing or aligning, which can be passive or active, but doesn't necessarily imply collaborative effort.
Idioms & Expressions
— To go with the flow; to adapt to the prevailing mood or atmosphere of a situation, often without explicit agreement.
その場では波風を立てたくなかったので、皆の意見に空気に同調するようにした。 Sono ba de wa namikaze o tate takunakatta node, mina no iken ni kūki ni dōchō suru yō ni shita. (I didn't want to make waves at that time, so I tried to go with the flow and align with everyone's opinions.)
Informal/Neutral— To be on the same wavelength; to understand each other well, often implying emotional or intellectual resonance. This is very similar to the emotional aspect of 同調.
彼女とは初めて会った時から波長が合った。 Kanojo to wa hajimete atta toki kara hachō ga atta. (I felt on the same wavelength with her from the first time we met.)
Neutral— To become of one mind; to unite in purpose or feeling. This is a stronger form of alignment, implying complete agreement and shared will.
チーム全員で心を一つにして、大会に臨んだ。 Chīmu zen'in de kokoro o hitotsu ni shite, taikai ni nozonda. (The entire team united in spirit and faced the tournament.)
Neutral/Formal— To conform to public opinion or societal norms; to follow what is generally accepted.
あまり世間に同調しすぎると、自分の個性が失われてしまうかもしれない。 Amari seken ni dōchō shisugi ru to, jibun no kosei ga ushinawarete shimau kamoshirenai. (If you conform too much to the general public, you might lose your individuality.)
Neutral— To tune a frequency (literal); metaphorically, to align one's understanding or perspective.
まずは相手の周波数を合わせることから始めよう。 Mazu wa aite no shūhasū o awaseru koto kara hajimeyō. (First, let's start by tuning into the other person's wavelength.)
Technical/MetaphoricalEasily Confused
Both words relate to agreement.
<strong>同調</strong> implies aligning with a group's opinion, trend, or feeling, suggesting a broader conformity or resonance. <strong>賛成</strong>, on the other hand, is a direct agreement or approval of a specific proposal, idea, or statement. You might <strong>同調</strong> with the general sentiment of a political party, but you would <strong>賛成</strong> a specific policy they propose.
皆の意見に<strong>同調</strong>して、その提案に<strong>賛成</strong>した。 Mina no iken ni <strong>dōchō</strong> shite, sono teian ni <strong>sansei</strong> shita. (Aligning with everyone's opinion, I agreed to that proposal.)
Both can relate to understanding others' feelings.
<strong>同調</strong> can include emotional alignment, but it's broader and can apply to opinions, actions, and technical tuning. <strong>共感</strong> specifically means empathy – understanding and sharing the feelings of another person. You can feel <strong>同調</strong> with a character's situation in a movie (aligning your perspective), but you feel <strong>共感</strong> with their sadness (sharing their emotion).
彼の苦しみに<strong>共感</strong>し、その状況に<strong>同調</strong>した。 Kare no kurushimi ni <strong>kyōkan</strong> shi, sono jōkyō ni <strong>dōchō</strong> shita. (Empathizing with his suffering, I aligned with his situation.)
Both involve working or being together.
<strong>同調</strong> means to align, conform, or tune in, often implying harmony with existing elements or a group. <strong>協調</strong> means cooperation or coordination, emphasizing active teamwork and collaboration to achieve a common goal. You might <strong>同調</strong> with your colleagues' ideas to maintain harmony, but you <strong>協調</strong> with them to complete a project.
チームとして<strong>協調</strong>し、皆の意見に<strong>同調</strong>して進めた。 Chīmu to shite <strong>kyōchō</strong> shi, minna no iken ni <strong>dōchō</strong> shite susumeta. (Cooperating as a team, we proceeded by aligning with everyone's opinions.)
Both imply adjusting to something.
<strong>同調</strong> is about aligning with something specific, like an opinion, a group, or a frequency. <strong>順応</strong> is about adapting or adjusting to a new environment, conditions, or situation, often implying becoming accustomed to it. You might <strong>順応</strong> to a new workplace culture, which could involve some degree of <strong>同調</strong> with its norms.
新しい環境に<strong>順応</strong>するために、周囲の意見に<strong>同調</strong>した。 Atarashii kankyō ni <strong>jun'ō</strong> suru tame ni, shūi no iken ni <strong>dōchō</strong> shita. (To adapt to the new environment, I aligned with the opinions of those around me.)
Both suggest agreement or sameness.
<strong>同調</strong> implies aligning with something, often a group or trend, suggesting a process of coming into harmony. <strong>一致</strong> means to agree, match, or coincide perfectly, indicating a state of exact sameness or agreement. While <strong>同調</strong> can lead to <strong>一致</strong>, <strong>一致</strong> itself is a state of perfect correspondence.
議論の結果、皆の意見が<strong>一致</strong>し、その方針に<strong>同調</strong>することになった。 Giron no kekka, minna no iken ga <strong>itchi</strong> shi, sono hōshin ni <strong>dōchō</strong> suru koto ni natta. (As a result of the discussion, everyone's opinions matched, and it was decided to align with that policy.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + に + 同調する (ni dōchō suru)
みんな<strong>に同調する</strong>。 Minna <strong>ni dōchō suru</strong>. (To align with everyone.)
Noun + と + 同調する (to dōchō suru)
集団<strong>と同調する</strong>。 Shūdan <strong>to dōchō suru</strong>. (To align with the group.)
Noun + を + Noun + に + 同調させる (o Noun ni dōchō saseru)
ラジオ<strong>を</strong>目的の周波数<strong>に同調させる</strong>。 Rajio <strong>o</strong> mokuteki no shūhasū <strong>ni dōchō saseru</strong>. (To tune the radio to the desired frequency.)
Noun + の + 同調 (no dōchō)
意見<strong>の同調</strong>。 Iken <strong>no dōchō</strong>. (Alignment of opinions.)
Noun + が + 同調する (ga dōchō suru)
二つの回路<strong>が同調した</strong>。 Futatsu no kairo <strong>ga dōchō shita</strong>. (The two circuits synchronized.)
Noun + における + 同調 (ni okeru dōchō)
集団心理<strong>における同調</strong>。 Shūdan shinri <strong>ni okeru dōchō</strong>. (Alignment in group psychology.)
Noun + に + 同調 + させる (ni dōchō saseru)
部下をリーダーの考え<strong>に同調させる</strong>。 Buka o rīdā no kangae <strong>ni dōchō saseru</strong>. (To make subordinates align with the leader's thinking.)
Noun + と + 同調 + する (to dōchō suru)
社会の動き<strong>と同調する</strong>。 Shakai no ugoki <strong>to dōchō suru</strong>. (To align with societal movements.)
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common in B2-C1 CEFR levels, especially in discussions about society, psychology, and technology.
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Using 同調 for simple agreement.
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Use 賛成 (sansei) or 同意 (dōi) for direct agreement.
同調 implies aligning with a group, trend, or sentiment, not just agreeing to a specific point. For example, saying '彼の意見に<strong>同調</strong>しました' when you just agreed with one person's single opinion might be too strong; '賛成しました' would be more appropriate.
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Confusing emotional 同調 with 共感.
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Use 共感 (kyōkan) for empathy (sharing feelings).
While 同調 can mean emotional resonance, 共感 specifically means understanding and sharing feelings. '彼の悲しみに<strong>同調</strong>した' is okay, but '彼の悲しみに<strong>共感</strong>した' is more precise for empathy.
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Applying technical tuning meaning to social situations.
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Use appropriate social terms for agreement or understanding.
Saying someone is 'tuned' to another person's voice (周波数に<strong>同調</strong>する) in a social context sounds unnatural. Use terms like '話が合う' (hanashi ga au - to get along) or '波長が合う' (hachō ga au - to be on the same wavelength).
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Overusing 同調 for simple conformity.
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Consider context and alternatives like 順応 (adaptation) or simply describing the action.
Not every instance of fitting in requires the word 同調. If someone is adapting to a new environment, 順応 might be better. If they are just following orders, simply stating the action might suffice.
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Assuming 同調 always implies negative pressure.
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Recognize that 同調 can also refer to positive harmony, cooperation, or necessary synchronization.
While 同調圧力 (conformity pressure) exists, 同調 itself can describe the positive act of aligning with a team goal or achieving technical synchronization, which is often beneficial.
Tips
Context is King
The meaning of 同調 (dōchō) shifts significantly depending on the context. Pay close attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to determine if it refers to social conformity, emotional resonance, or technical tuning.
Nuance Matters
Don't confuse 同調 with similar words like 賛成 (agreement) or 共感 (empathy). While related, 同調 implies a broader alignment or resonance. Think 'same tune' for 同調, 'yes' for 賛成, and 'feeling with' for 共感.
Mastering Verbs
The verb form 同調する (dōchō suru) is very common. Also, learn the causative 同調させる (dōchō saseru - to make align/tune) and potential 同調できる (dōchō dekiru - can align/tune) to express different actions related to alignment.
Tuning In
In technical contexts, 同調 often refers to tuning a device to a specific frequency. Remember the literal meaning of the kanji: 'same' (同) and 'tune/harmony' (調) helps connect this to 'matching a frequency.'
Group Alignment
When discussing social situations, 同調 can describe conforming to group opinions or behaviors. Be aware of phrases like 同調圧力 (conformity pressure) which highlights the potential negative aspects of this alignment.
Shared Feelings
同調 can describe feeling emotionally connected or in sync with someone. While similar to empathy (共感), it can imply a broader alignment of feelings or moods.
Idiomatic Use
Learn idioms like 空気に同調する (kūki ni dōchō suru - to go with the flow) to use the word more naturally in informal settings.
Active Practice
Try to create your own sentences using 同調 in different contexts. This active recall and application will solidify your understanding and improve your fluency.
Pronunciation Focus
Pay attention to the stress on the second syllable (do-CHO). Clear pronunciation is key to being understood, especially when distinguishing it from similar-sounding words.
Cultural Context
Understanding the Japanese cultural emphasis on group harmony (和 - wa) can provide deeper insight into why 同調 is such a relevant concept in social interactions.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a radio dial. You need to make the dial 'same' (同) as the broadcast station's 'tune' (調) to hear the music clearly. This 'same tune' is 同調.
Visual Association
Picture a conductor leading an orchestra. The conductor's baton (調) guides all the musicians to play in 'same' (同) harmony. Or, imagine a group of people all singing the same song in perfect unison.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find three instances in your daily life where you or others exhibit 同調, whether it's agreeing with a friend, humming the same tune, or adjusting a device. Write down your observations.
Word Origin
The word 同調 is a compound word formed from two kanji characters, reflecting its meaning of alignment and harmony. The first character, 同 (dō), means 'same', 'alike', or 'identical'. The second character, 調 (chō), relates to 'tune', 'tone', 'harmony', 'investigate', or 'regulate'. Together, they literally suggest 'same tune' or 'alike harmony'.
Original meaning: The literal meaning is 'same tune' or 'alike harmony', which directly translates to the concept of aligning with a specific frequency or a shared sentiment.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters)Cultural Context
While 同調 can imply conformity, it's important to note that it doesn't always have negative connotations. In many contexts, it signifies effective collaboration, empathy, or necessary synchronization. However, in discussions about social dynamics, it can be used critically to point out undue pressure to conform or a lack of critical thinking.
In English-speaking cultures, concepts like 'peer pressure,' 'fitting in,' 'going with the flow,' and 'being on the same wavelength' are common ways to express aspects of 同調. The technical meaning is similar to 'tuning' or 'synchronization'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Social gatherings and discussions
- 皆の意見に<strong>同調</strong>する。
- その場の雰囲気に<strong>同調</strong>した。
- <strong>同調圧力</strong>を感じた。
Workplace and team projects
- チームの目標に<strong>同調</strong>する。
- 上司の指示に<strong>同調</strong>せざるを得なかった。
- 新しい方針への<strong>同調</strong>が求められる。
Technical fields (radio, electronics, physics)
- 周波数に<strong>同調</strong>させる。
- 回路が<strong>同調</strong>した。
- 信号に<strong>同調</strong>する装置。
Media analysis and public opinion
- 世論への<strong>同調</strong>。
- メディアの<strong>同調効果</strong>。
- 大衆心理の<strong>同調</strong>。
Interpersonal relationships and empathy
- 相手の感情に<strong>同調</strong>する。
- その悲しみに<strong>同調</strong>して泣いた。
- <strong>波長が合う</strong>（似た意味合い）。
Conversation Starters
"Do you think it's always good to 同調 with your friends, or is it sometimes better to have your own opinion?"
"When you hear a song that really resonates with you, can you say it's a kind of 同調?"
"In a team project, how important is it for everyone to 同調 with the leader's vision?"
"Have you ever felt 同調圧力 (conformity pressure) in a social situation? How did you handle it?"
"If you were building a radio, what would be the most important step in making it 同調 to a specific station?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time when you chose to <strong>同調</strong> with a group. What were the reasons behind your decision, and what were the consequences?
Describe a piece of art, music, or a book that you felt a strong sense of <strong>同調</strong> with. What aspects of it resonated with you?
Imagine a scenario where you need to <strong>同調</strong> with a colleague's idea at work, even if you have reservations. How would you approach this situation?
Consider the technical meaning of <strong>同調</strong> (tuning). Can you think of any non-technical situations where 'tuning in' or 'finding the right frequency' with someone is crucial?
Write about the balance between maintaining your individuality and the need for social <strong>同調</strong>. Where do you draw the line?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot necessarily. While it can describe negative conformity (e.g., due to peer pressure), it also refers to positive aspects like social harmony, effective teamwork, emotional resonance, and technical synchronization. The context determines the connotation.
同調 (dōchō) is about aligning with a group, trend, or sentiment, implying a broader conformity or resonance. 賛成 (sansei) is a direct agreement or approval of a specific proposal or idea. You might 同調 with the general mood of a meeting, but you would 賛成 a specific motion.
Yes, it can describe emotional alignment or resonance, similar to 'being on the same wavelength.' For example, '彼の悲しみに同調して、私も涙ぐんだ' (Aligning with his sadness, I also teared up).
In technical fields like radio or physics, it means to tune into a specific frequency or to synchronize with a particular oscillation. For instance, 'ラジオの周波数を同調させる' means 'to tune the radio frequency.'
Common phrases include 同調圧力 (conformity pressure), 同調効果 (alignment effect), and the verb form 同調する (to align/conform).
Yes, the idiom 空気に同調する (kūki ni dōchō suru) means 'to go with the flow' or to adapt to the prevailing atmosphere or mood of a situation.
共感 (kyōkan) specifically means empathy – understanding and sharing someone's feelings. While 同調 can encompass emotional resonance, 共感 is more precise when you want to emphasize feeling *with* someone emotionally.
It can imply mirroring behavior to fit in, which is a form of copying, but its core meaning is alignment or harmony rather than direct imitation.
Opposites include 反発 (hanpatsu - resistance/rebellion), 逸脱 (itsudatsu - deviation), and 孤立 (koritsu - isolation).
The surrounding vocabulary and context are key. If the sentence talks about people, opinions, or groups, it's likely social. If it mentions frequencies, signals, or devices, it's technical.
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Summary
同調 (dōchō) signifies alignment, whether it's conforming to group opinions, resonating emotionally with others, or tuning a device to a specific frequency. It's about being on the same wavelength.
- 同調 means aligning with others, whether in opinion, action, or frequency.
- It can describe social conformity, emotional resonance, or technical tuning.
- Use it when people agree, share feelings, or a device matches a signal.
- Context is key: social, technical, or emotional situations.
Context is King
The meaning of 同調 (dōchō) shifts significantly depending on the context. Pay close attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to determine if it refers to social conformity, emotional resonance, or technical tuning.
Nuance Matters
Don't confuse 同調 with similar words like 賛成 (agreement) or 共感 (empathy). While related, 同調 implies a broader alignment or resonance. Think 'same tune' for 同調, 'yes' for 賛成, and 'feeling with' for 共感.
Mastering Verbs
The verb form 同調する (dōchō suru) is very common. Also, learn the causative 同調させる (dōchō saseru - to make align/tune) and potential 同調できる (dōchō dekiru - can align/tune) to express different actions related to alignment.
Tuning In
In technical contexts, 同調 often refers to tuning a device to a specific frequency. Remember the literal meaning of the kanji: 'same' (同) and 'tune/harmony' (調) helps connect this to 'matching a frequency.'
Example
彼は周囲の意見に同調する傾向がある。
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