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B1 noun #1,000 most common 10 min read

相談

soudan Top 1,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 相談 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 相談 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn '相談 (soudan)' as a basic noun that means 'consultation' or 'talk.' You will mostly use it in the simple phrase '相談があります' (Soudan ga arimasu), which means 'I have something to talk to you about' or 'I have a question.' This is a very useful phrase to use with your teacher or a Japanese friend when you need help. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just remember that 'soudan' is for when you have a problem or need advice, and it's a polite way to start a conversation. For example, if you don't understand a homework assignment, you can say 'Sensei, soudan ga arimasu.' It sounds more natural and polite than just saying 'Help me!' It shows that you want to discuss something properly.

At the A2 level, you start using '相談 (soudan)' as a verb by adding 'suru.' The pattern is '[Person] ni soudan suru.' For example, 'Tomodachi ni soudan shimasu' (I will consult my friend). You should also learn the phrase '相談に行く' (soudan ni iku), which means 'to go to consult someone.' This is common when talking about going to a doctor, a teacher, or a professional. You are beginning to understand that 'soudan' is different from 'shitsumon' (question). While a question is for a quick fact, a 'soudan' is for a situation where you need the other person's opinion or guidance. You might use it when talking about your hobbies, your daily life, or small problems you are facing.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '相談 (soudan)' in various social and professional contexts. You will learn the important phrase '相談に乗る' (soudan ni noru), which means to give advice or listen to someone's problems. This is a key part of being a good friend or colleague in Japan. You also start to see 'soudan' in the context of 'Hou-Ren-Sou' (Report-Contact-Consult), which is the standard for Japanese business communication. You should understand how to use 'soudan' to reach a consensus, such as 'Kazoku to soudan shite kara kimemasu' (I will decide after consulting with my family). At this level, you can use 'soudan' to handle more complex situations like career planning or resolving minor conflicts.

At the B2 level, you understand the deeper cultural nuances of '相談 (soudan).' You know that it is often used for 'nemawashi'—the practice of quiet, informal consultation before a formal decision is made. You can use formal versions like 'ご相談 (go-soudan)' in business emails and polite speech. You are aware of related terms like '協議 (kyougi)' for formal deliberations and '打ち合わせ (uchiawase)' for coordination meetings, and you can choose the right word for the situation. You can also use 'soudan' in the passive voice ('soudan sareru') to describe being the person people come to for advice. You understand that 'soudan' is a tool for maintaining harmony (wa) within a group by ensuring everyone's input is considered.

At the C1 level, you can use '相談 (soudan)' and its derivatives in highly specialized and formal environments. You are familiar with terms like '相談役 (soudan-yaku)' (senior advisor) and '法律相談 (hou-ritsu soudan)' (legal consultation). You can navigate complex discussions where 'soudan' is used strategically to influence outcomes or build alliances. You understand the subtle difference between 'soudan' and 'shimon' (inquiry/consultation by a high-level body). You can write professional reports or give presentations that detail the results of various 'soudan' processes. Your use of the word reflects a deep understanding of Japanese organizational psychology and the importance of collective decision-making.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '相談 (soudan)' is indistinguishable from a native speaker. You understand its use in classical literature, legal statutes, and high-level political discourse. You can appreciate the nuances of 'soudan' in historical contexts, such as the 'Go-soudan-yaku' of the Edo period. You can use the word to facilitate high-stakes negotiations, using 'soudan' to create a sense of mutual respect and shared purpose even in adversarial situations. You can analyze the cultural implications of 'soudan' in Japanese society versus 'consultation' in Western societies, articulating the differences in individual versus group responsibility. Your command of the word allows you to use it with perfect tone, register, and cultural sensitivity in any imaginable scenario.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

相談 in 30 Seconds

Soudan means consultation or seeking advice from others.
It is a 'suru' verb: [Person] ni [Topic] o soudan suru.
It is a key part of Japanese business (Hou-Ren-Sou).
Use 'soudan ni noru' when you are the one giving advice.

The Japanese word 相談 (soudan) is a cornerstone of Japanese social and professional interaction. At its most basic level, it translates to 'consultation' or 'discussion,' but its cultural weight is much heavier than its English counterparts. It refers to the act of approaching someone to seek advice, share a problem, or reach a mutual decision. Unlike a simple 'question' (shitsumon), a soudan implies a level of trust and a desire for the other person's input on a matter that is not yet settled.

The Kanji Breakdown: The first kanji, 相 (sou), means 'mutual' or 'together.' The second kanji, 談 (dan), means 'to talk' or 'to converse.' Together, they literally mean 'talking together' or 'mutual discussion.' This highlights that soudan is not a one-way street; it is a collaborative effort to find a solution.

ちょっと相談があるんだけど、今いいかな？ (Chotto soudan ga arun dakedo, ima ii kana? - I have something I'd like to consult you about; do you have a moment?)

In a professional setting, soudan is part of the famous Hou-Ren-Sou (Report-Contact-Consult) system. It is expected that employees consult their superiors before making significant decisions. This prevents individual errors and ensures that the responsibility is shared within the group. In personal life, friends often use this word when they are troubled by relationships, career choices, or financial issues. It signals that the speaker values the listener's opinion and is looking for more than just a casual chat.

Nuance of Involvement: When you 'soudan' with someone, you are inviting them into your decision-making process. It is a way to build rapport and 'nemawashi' (laying the groundwork) in Japanese culture. It is less about 'What is the answer?' and more about 'What do you think we should do?'

親に将来の進路について相談しました。(Oya ni shourai no shinro ni tsuite soudan shimashita. - I consulted my parents about my future career path.)

The word is versatile. It can be a noun (soudan) or a verb (soudan suru). It can also be used in compounds like soudan-yaku (an advisor) or soudan-jo (a consultation office/counseling center). Whether it is a legal matter, a medical concern, or a simple heart-to-heart, soudan is the go-to term for seeking guidance.

Frequency and Context: You will hear this word daily in Japan. From 'soudan muryou' (free consultation) signs at law firms to 'chotto soudan' in the hallway at school, it is ubiquitous. It bridges the gap between formal advice and informal help.

専門家に相談するのが一番です。(Senmonka ni soudan suru no ga ichiban desu. - Consulting a specialist is the best course of action.)

Using 相談 (soudan) correctly requires understanding its grammatical patterns. The most common structure is [Person] ni [Matter] o soudan suru. This means 'to consult [Person] about [Matter].' Note that the particle に (ni) is used for the person you are approaching, while を (o) or について (ni tsuite) is used for the topic.

Pattern 1: Seeking Advice: When you are the one with the problem, you use soudan suru. For example: 'Tomodachi ni ren-ai no nayami o soudan shita' (I consulted my friend about my romantic troubles).

上司に新しいプロジェクトについて相談しました。(Joushi ni atarashii purojekuto ni tsuite soudan shimashita. - I consulted my boss about the new project.)

Another vital pattern is soudan ni noru. This is used when you are the one listening and giving advice. It literally translates to 'getting on the consultation.' If a friend asks for help, you might say, 'Watashi de yokereba, soudan ni noru yo' (If I'm okay, I'll listen to your problem/give you advice).

Pattern 2: Mutual Discussion: Sometimes soudan is used to mean 'discussing together' to reach a consensus. In this case, you might use the particle と (to). 'Kare to kekkon ni tsuite soudan shite iru' (I am discussing marriage with him).

家族と相談してから決めます。(Kazoku to soudan shite kara kimemasu. - I will decide after consulting with my family.)

In formal contexts, you might see go-soudan (the polite form). A company might say to a client, 'Itsu demo go-soudan kudasai' (Please consult us anytime). This adds a layer of professional courtesy and hospitality.

Pattern 3: Formal Requests: When asking for a consultation, use 'soudan ga aru' (I have a consultation) or 'soudan ni kitai' (I want to come for a consultation). In business emails, 'go-soudan moushiagemasu' is a very formal way to say 'I would like to consult you.'

弁護士に相談に行く予定です。(Bengoshi ni soudan ni iku yotei desu. - I plan to go consult a lawyer.)

You will encounter 相談 (soudan) in almost every facet of Japanese life. It is not just a word; it is a social protocol. In the workplace, the concept of Hou-Ren-Sou (Reporting, Contacting, and Consulting) is drilled into every new employee. If you are unsure about a task, you don't just 'guess'; you 'soudan' with your senpai (senior) or joushi (boss). This ensures that if things go wrong, the responsibility is shared, and the team is aligned.

In the Office: During meetings, you might hear: 'Kono ken ni tsuite wa, ichido shachou ni soudan suru hitsuyou ga arimasu' (Regarding this matter, it is necessary to consult the president once). It implies a formal step in the decision-making hierarchy.

「ほうれんそう」の「そう」は相談のことです。(Horensou no 'sou' wa soudan no koto desu. - The 'sou' in 'Horensou' stands for 'soudan'.)

In educational settings, students often visit the shinro soudan-shitsu (career counseling room) to talk about their future. Teachers will often say, 'Nayami ga attara, itsu demo soudan ni kite ne' (If you have any worries, come consult me anytime). This fosters a supportive environment where students feel they don't have to carry burdens alone.

In Daily Life and Media: On television, 'jinsei soudan' (life consultation) programs are very popular. Viewers call in or write letters about their life problems, and a panel of experts or celebrities gives advice. This reflects the Japanese value of seeking wisdom from others.

ラジオの人生相談を聞くのが好きです。(Rajio no jinsei soudan o kiku no ga suki desu. - I like listening to life consultation programs on the radio.)

Even in retail, you'll see 'okaimono soudan' (shopping consultation) desks at large department stores. It suggests that the staff are there to help you make the best choice, rather than just selling you something. The word creates an atmosphere of helpfulness and expertise.

Interpersonal Relationships: Between friends, saying 'Soudan ga aru' is a serious signal. It means the conversation is moving away from small talk into something meaningful. It's a way to deepen a friendship by showing vulnerability.

友達に恋の相談をしました。(Tomodachi ni koi no soudan o shimashita. - I consulted my friend about my love life.)

While 相談 (soudan) is a common word, English speakers often misuse it by confusing it with 'question' or 'talk.' Understanding the specific boundaries of soudan is key to sounding natural in Japanese.

Mistake 1: Confusing with 'Shitsumon' (Question): A 'shitsumon' is used when there is a factual answer you don't know. For example, 'What time is the meeting?' is a shitsumon. 'Soudan' is used when you need advice or a decision. If you ask a teacher 'What does this word mean?', use 'shitsumon.' If you ask 'How should I study for the exam?', use 'soudan.'

❌ 漢字の意味を相談します。
✅ 漢字の意味を質問します。(Ask the meaning of a kanji.)

Another common error is using soudan when you just mean 'to talk' or 'to chat' (hanasu). Soudan always implies a purpose or a problem to be solved. If you just want to catch up with a friend, don't say 'soudan ga aru,' as they will think something serious is wrong.

Mistake 2: Incorrect Particle Usage: Learners often use 'soudan o suru' with the wrong particle for the person. Remember: [Person] に soudan suru. Using 'to' (with) is okay if it's a mutual discussion, but 'ni' is the standard for seeking advice.

❌ 先生を相談しました。
✅ 先生に相談しました。(Consulted the teacher.)

Mistaking 'soudan ni noru' and 'soudan suru' is also frequent. If you say 'Soudan ni noritai desu' when you actually have a problem, you are telling the other person that you want to give them advice. Always remember: suru = you seek, noru = you listen.

Mistake 3: Confusing with 'Uchiawase': 'Uchiawase' is a business meeting to coordinate details. 'Soudan' is more about seeking guidance or making a decision on a problem. Don't call a logistics meeting a 'soudan' unless you are actually stuck and need help.

❌ 明日のパーティーのスケジュールを相談しましょう。
✅ 明日のパーティーの打ち合わせをしましょう。(Let's have a briefing/meeting for tomorrow's party.)

To truly master Japanese, you need to know when to use 相談 (soudan) and when to choose a more specific synonym. Japanese has many words for 'talking,' each with its own nuance of formality and purpose.

相談 (Soudan) vs. 協議 (Kyougi): Soudan is the general term for seeking advice or discussing a matter. Kyougi is much more formal and usually refers to official deliberations or negotiations between organizations or high-level officials. You 'soudan' with a friend, but governments 'kyougi' over a treaty.

両国は貿易問題について協議した。(Ryoukoku wa boueki mondai ni tsuite kyougi shita. - Both countries deliberated on trade issues.)

Another common alternative is 話し合い (hanashiai). While soudan often implies one person seeking help from another, hanashiai is more balanced. It is a 'discussion' or 'talk' where both sides present their views to reach an agreement. If a couple is arguing and needs to resolve it, they have a hanashiai.

相談 (Soudan) vs. 打ち合わせ (Uchiawase): Uchiawase is a business term for a preparatory meeting or a briefing. It is used when the goal is to coordinate schedules, confirm details, or make sure everyone is on the same page for an upcoming event. Soudan is used when the direction itself is undecided.

来週のイベントの打ち合わせをしましょう。(Raishuu no ibento no uchiawase o shimashou. - Let's have a meeting to coordinate next week's event.)

For professional advice, you might use コンサルティング (konsarutingu) or 助言 (jogen). Jogen specifically means 'advice' or 'suggestion' and is often used in writing or formal speech. If a doctor gives you a tip on health, that is jogen. The act of going to the doctor to get that tip is soudan.

Other Related Terms

カウンセリング (kaunseringu): Psychological counseling.
提言 (teigen): A formal proposal or recommendation.
忠告 (chuukoku): A warning or piece of advice given to correct someone's behavior.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the Edo period, 'Soudan' was often used in legal and administrative contexts where village leaders would meet to discuss taxes and laws. It wasn't until the Meiji era that it became a common word for personal advice.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /soʊ.dɑːn/

US /soʊ.dɑn/

In Japanese, 'soudan' has a flat pitch accent (Heiban), meaning the pitch starts low and rises, staying high through the end of the word.

Rhymes With

Koudan (lecture) Joudan (joke) Kandan (chat) Gendan (reduction) Handan (judgment) Mondan (questioning) Sandan (means/steps) Boudan (bulletproof)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'sou' as a short 'so'. It must be a long vowel.
Pronouncing 'dan' like the English name 'Dan'. It should be more like 'don'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable. Japanese is pitch-based, not stress-based.
Forgetting the 'n' sound at the end.
Confusing the pitch with 'soutan' (total).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The kanji are common but require B1 level knowledge to read consistently.

Writing 4/5

The kanji '談' has many strokes and can be tricky to write correctly.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward once you master the long vowel.

Listening 2/5

It is a very distinct word and easy to pick out in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

話す (To talk) 聞く (To listen/ask) 問題 (Problem) 先生 (Teacher) 友達 (Friend)

Learn Next

協議 (Deliberation) 助言 (Advice) 解決 (Resolution) 提案 (Proposal) 納得 (Consent/Understanding)

Advanced

根回し (Nemawashi) 稟議 (Ringi - decision-making system) 諮問 (Shimon - formal inquiry) 談合 (Dangou - bid-rigging/collusion)

Grammar to Know

Particle 'ni' for the recipient of the consultation.

田中さんに相談する。

Particle 'to' for mutual consultation.

みんなと相談する。

Using 'te morau' for receiving advice.

相談に乗ってもらう。

Using 'te kureru' for someone giving you advice.

相談に乗ってくれた。

Humble 'go-soudan suru' for formal situations.

ご相談したいことがございます。

Examples by Level

先生、ちょっと相談があります。

Teacher, I have a small consultation/thing to talk about.

Uses the basic 'soudan ga arimasu' pattern.

お母さんに相談しました。

I consulted my mother.

Uses the past tense 'shimashita' with the particle 'ni'.

友達に相談します。

I will consult my friend.

Simple future/habitual tense.

相談は無料です。

Consultation is free.

Noun + wa + adjective structure.

どこで相談できますか？

Where can I consult?

Potential form 'dekimasu'.

電話で相談しました。

I consulted over the phone.

Particle 'de' indicates the method.

日本語の相談をしたいです。

I want to have a consultation about Japanese.

Desire form 'tai desu'.

明日、相談しましょう。

Let's consult tomorrow.

Volitional form 'shimashou'.

新しい仕事を相談に行きました。

I went to consult about a new job.

The 'ni iku' (go to do) construction.

先生に勉強の仕方を相談した。

I consulted the teacher about how to study.

Informal past tense 'shita'.

誰に相談すればいいですか？

Who should I consult?

Conditional 'ba' + 'ii desu ka' (should I).

困ったときは相談してください。

Please consult when you are in trouble.

Polite request 'te kudasai'.

旅行の計画を友達と相談する。

I will discuss travel plans with my friend.

Particle 'to' indicates mutual discussion.

父は私の相談に乗ってくれた。

My father gave me advice (listened to my consultation).

Uses 'soudan ni noru' + 'te kureru' (benefactive).

メールで相談してもいいですか？

Is it okay to consult via email?

Asking permission 'te mo ii desu ka'.

相談したいことがたくさんあります。

There are many things I want to consult about.

Noun modification 'soudan shitai koto'.

将来の進路について、先生と相談した。

I discussed my future path with my teacher.

'Ni tsuite' (about) is used for the topic.

一人で悩まずに、誰かに相談すべきだ。

You should consult someone instead of worrying alone.

'Subeki' (should) expresses obligation/advice.

上司に相談してから、返事をします。

I will reply after consulting with my boss.

'Te kara' (after doing) indicates sequence.

彼はいつも親身になって相談に乗ってくれる。

He always listens to my problems very kindly.

'Shinmi ni naru' means to be very helpful/kind.

この件は、一度家族と相談させてください。

Please let me consult with my family about this matter once.

Causative 'saseru' + 'te kudasai' (let me).

専門家に相談するのが一番の解決策です。

Consulting a specialist is the best solution.

Nominalizer 'no' + 'ga' + 'ichiban'.

相談窓口はあちらにあります。

The consultation desk is over there.

Compound noun 'soudan madoguchi'.

何でも気軽に相談してくださいね。

Please feel free to consult about anything.

'Kigaru ni' means freely or without hesitation.

事態が深刻になる前に、専門家に相談すべきだった。

I should have consulted a specialist before the situation became serious.

Past conditional 'subeki datta' (should have).

その件については、現在弁護士と相談中です。

Regarding that matter, I am currently in consultation with a lawyer.

Suffix 'chuu' (in the middle of).

彼女は私の良き相談相手です。

She is a good person for me to consult with.

Compound noun 'soudan aite' (consultation partner).

予算の件で、部長にご相談申し上げます。

I would like to consult the department manager regarding the budget.

Humble form 'go-soudan moushiagemasu'.

周囲に相談できる人がいなくて、困っています。

I am in trouble because there is no one around I can consult.

Potential modification 'soudan dekiru hito'.

契約を結ぶ前に、もう一度よく相談しましょう。

Let's discuss it thoroughly once more before signing the contract.

Time clause 'mae ni'.

彼は誰にも相談せずに、勝手に決めてしまった。

He decided on his own without consulting anyone.

'Zuni' (without doing).

市役所の無料相談会に参加した。

I participated in a free consultation session at the city hall.

Compound noun 'muryou soudan-kai'.

経営方針について、顧問弁護士と協議を重ねた。

We held repeated deliberations with our legal counsel regarding management policy.

Uses 'kyougi' (deliberation) as a higher-level synonym.

彼は党の最高顧問として、重要事項の相談役に就いている。

As the party's supreme advisor, he serves as a consultant on important matters.

'Soudan-yaku' refers to a formal advisory role.

プライバシーに配慮し、個室での相談を承っております。

In consideration of privacy, we accept consultations in private rooms.

Keigo 'uketamawatte orimasu' (accept/receive).

今回のプロジェクトは、各部署との綿密な相談が必要不可欠だ。

For this project, close consultation with each department is indispensable.

'Hitsuyou fukaketsu' (indispensable).

住民の意向を無視して進めるのではなく、まずは相談の場を設けるべきだ。

Rather than proceeding while ignoring the residents' wishes, a forum for consultation should first be established.

'Soudan no ba' (place/forum for consultation).

複雑な利害関係が絡んでいるため、慎重な相談が求められる。

Since complex interests are involved, careful consultation is required.

Passive 'motomerareru' (is required).

彼は私の悩みを一蹴せず、真摯に相談に乗ってくれた。

He didn't brush off my worries but listened to my consultation with sincerity.

'Isshuu suru' (to brush off/reject).

法的手段に訴える前に、まずは円満な相談による解決を図りたい。

Before resorting to legal means, I want to aim for a resolution through amicable consultation.

'Enman na' (amicable/harmonious).

国家間の機密事項に関わるため、極秘裏に相談が進められた。

As it involved state secrets, consultations were carried out in the utmost secrecy.

'Gokuhi-ri ni' (in secret).

その問題は、一朝一夕の相談で解決できるほど単純ではない。

That problem is not so simple that it can be solved by a consultation of a single day and night.

Idiom 'icchou isseki' (overnight/in a short time).

有識者会議での相談を経て、新たな法案が提出された。

After consultations in the expert committee, a new bill was submitted.

'Wo hete' (through/after passing through).

彼は、周囲の反対を押し切って相談なしに独断で行動した。

He acted on his own judgment without consultation, pushing past the opposition of those around him.

'Oshikiru' (to push through/overcome opposition).

学術的な見地からの相談を仰ぐため、教授を訪ねた。

I visited the professor to seek consultation from an academic standpoint.

'Aogu' (to look up to/seek advice from a superior).

紛争の火種を消すためには、当事者同士の粘り強い相談が不可欠である。

To extinguish the sparks of conflict, persistent consultation between the parties involved is essential.

'Nebari-zuyoi' (persistent/tenacious).

古来より、村の重要な決定は長老たちとの相談によってなされてきた。

Since ancient times, important village decisions have been made through consultation with the elders.

Passive 'nasarete kita' (has been done).

その慈善団体は、多岐にわたる生活相談をワンストップで受け付けている。

The charity organization accepts a wide range of life consultations in a one-stop manner.

'Taki ni wataru' (wide-ranging/diverse).

Synonyms

協議打ち合わせコンサルテーション話し合いカウンセリング

Antonyms

独断

Common Collocations

相談に乗る

相談がある

相談に行く

相談を受ける

相談窓口

相談相手

相談役

無料相談

人生相談

事前相談

Common Phrases

ちょっと相談なんですが

— A polite way to start a conversation when you need help. It softens the request.

ちょっと相談なんですが、お時間よろしいでしょうか？

相談に乗ってください

— A direct request for someone to listen to your problem and give advice.

困っているので、ぜひ相談に乗ってください。

よく相談して決めます

— Used to indicate that a decision will be made collectively after careful thought.

家族とよく相談して決めます。

相談の余地がある

— There is still room for discussion or negotiation.

その価格については、まだ相談の余地があります。

相談を持ちかける

— To approach someone with a specific matter for consultation.

彼に新しいビジネスの相談を持ちかけた。

相談がまとまる

— The consultation or discussion has reached a conclusion or agreement.

ようやく相談がまとまりました。

相談に乗ってもらう

— To have someone listen to your problems (receiving the favor of advice).

先輩に相談に乗ってもらった。

内密に相談する

— To consult someone privately or confidentially.

この件は内密に相談したい。

相談を重ねる

— To have multiple consultations or discussions over time.

何度も相談を重ねて、結論を出した。

相談不足

— A lack of consultation, often cited as a reason for failure.

今回のミスは相談不足が原因だ。

Often Confused With

相談 vs 質問 (shitsumon)

Shitsumon is for factual questions. Soudan is for advice or decision-making.

相談 vs 話し合い (hanashiai)

Hanashiai is a balanced discussion. Soudan often implies seeking help.

相談 vs 打ち合わせ (uchiawase)

Uchiawase is for coordinating details. Soudan is for deciding direction.

Idioms & Expressions

"相談に乗る"

— To listen to someone's problems and offer advice. It implies being supportive.

彼はいつも親身に相談に乗ってくれる。

Neutral

"相談の余地なし"

— No room for discussion; the decision is final and non-negotiable.

その件に関しては、もう相談の余地はありません。

Formal

"膝を突き合わせて相談する"

— To sit close together (knee-to-knee) and have a serious, heart-to-heart discussion.

親子で膝を突き合わせて相談した。

Idiomatic

"相談相手に事欠かない"

— To have no shortage of people to consult with; to be well-supported.

彼女は顔が広いので、相談相手に事欠かない。

Literary

"相談は二の次"

— Consultation is secondary; something else is more important or urgent.

今は実行が大事で、相談は二の次だ。

Neutral

"阿吽の呼吸で相談する"

— To consult or coordinate with someone so perfectly that words are barely needed.

二人は阿吽の呼吸で相談を進めた。

Idiomatic

"相談の種"

— A topic or matter that requires consultation; a source of worry.

子供の教育が今の相談の種だ。

Informal

"相談役を仰せつかる"

— To be formally appointed or asked to serve as an advisor.

新プロジェクトの相談役を仰せつかった。

Formal/Keigo

"相談が持ち上がる"

— A matter requiring consultation has arisen or been brought up.

縁談の相談が持ち上がった。

Neutral

"相談を蹴る"

— To reject a request for consultation or to ignore advice given.

せっかくの相談を蹴ってしまった。

Informal

Easily Confused

相談 vs 質問 (shitsumon)

Both involve asking something.

Shitsumon seeks a specific answer or fact (e.g., 'What time is it?'). Soudan seeks advice, guidance, or a mutual decision on a complex issue (e.g., 'Should I quit my job?').

駅への行き方を質問した。 (I asked the way to the station.) vs. 将来を相談した。 (I consulted about my future.)

相談 vs 話し合い (hanashiai)

Both involve talking to reach a goal.

Hanashiai is a neutral 'discussion' where parties exchange views. Soudan is specifically 'consultation' where one party usually initiates to get input from another.

予算について話し合った。 (We discussed the budget.)

相談 vs 打ち合わせ (uchiawase)

Both are common in business.

Uchiawase is a briefing or coordination meeting for something already decided. Soudan is the process of deciding what to do when you are unsure.

明日の会議の打ち合わせ。 (Briefing for tomorrow's meeting.)

相談 vs 協議 (kyougi)

Both mean discussing a matter.

Kyougi is much more formal and official, often used in legal or governmental contexts. Soudan is used for personal or general business matters.

条約の協議。 (Deliberation on a treaty.)

相談 vs 助言 (jogen)

Both relate to advice.

Jogen is the noun for the 'advice' itself. Soudan is the 'process' of seeking or giving that advice.

有益な助言をもらった。 (I received useful advice.)

Sentence Patterns

相談があります。

先生、相談があります。

[Person] に相談する。

友達に相談する。

相談に乗る。

悩み相談に乗る。

[Topic] について相談する。

将来について相談する。

相談に乗ってもらう。

先輩に相談に乗ってもらう。

ご相談申し上げます。

社長にご相談申し上げます。

相談を重ねる。

協議と相談を重ねる。

相談の余地がない。

もはや相談の余地はない。

Word Family

Nouns

相談 (Soudan - Consultation)

相談役 (Soudan-yaku - Advisor)

相談所 (Soudan-jo - Consultation office)

相談相手 (Soudan-aite - Consultation partner)

相談料 (Soudan-ryou - Consultation fee)

Verbs

相談する (Soudan suru - To consult)

相談に乗る (Soudan ni noru - To give advice)

相談を受ける (Soudan o ukeru - To be consulted)

話し合い (Discussion)

協議 (Deliberation)

助言 (Advice)

報告 (Report)

連絡 (Contact)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Japanese.

Common Mistakes

Using 'soudan' for a factual question. → 質問 (shitsumon)
If you ask 'What is the capital of Japan?', that is a shitsumon. If you ask 'Should I move to Tokyo?', that is a soudan.
Using 'soudan o suru' with the particle 'o' for the person. → [Person] に相談する
The person you consult is the target of your action, so use the particle 'ni.'
Saying 'soudan ni noritai' when you have a problem. → 相談したい / 相談に乗ってほしい
'Soudan ni noru' means giving advice. If you need help, you want someone else to 'noru' your consultation.
Using 'soudan' for a coordination meeting. → 打ち合わせ (uchiawase)
If the goal is just to check the schedule, use 'uchiawase.' 'Soudan' is for when you don't know what to do yet.
Forgetting the long vowel in 'sou'. → 相談 (soudan)
Pronouncing it as 'sodan' can make it hard to understand or sound like other words.

Tips

The Power of Nemawashi

In Japan, 'soudan' is the engine of 'nemawashi' (informal consensus building). Before a big meeting, people have many small 'soudan' sessions to make sure everyone agrees. This makes the final meeting just a formality.

Particle Precision

Always remember: [Person] NI [Topic] O/NI TSUITE soudan suru. Using the wrong particle is a common mistake for beginners.

Being a Good Listener

If someone says 'soudan ga aru,' stop what you are doing. It's a sign they trust you. Being a good 'soudan aite' (consultation partner) is a highly valued trait in Japan.

Hou-Ren-Sou

Never forget the 'Sou' in Hou-Ren-Sou. Even if you think you know the answer, consulting your team shows you are a team player and prevents solo mistakes.

Compound Power

Learn compounds like 'soudan-jo' (consultation office) and 'soudan-ryou' (fee). They appear everywhere on signs and in official documents.

Soudan vs. Shitsumon

If the answer is in a dictionary, it's a 'shitsumon.' If the answer is in someone's heart or experience, it's a 'soudan.'

Using Keigo

With superiors, always use 'go-soudan.' It shows you respect their time and expertise. 'Go-soudan ni ukagaitai' (I'd like to visit for a consultation) is very professional.

Catch the Pitch

Listen for the flat pitch of 'soudan.' It sounds steady and calm, reflecting the nature of a thoughtful discussion.

Kanji Practice

The 'dan' (談) in 'soudan' is the same as in 'kaidan' (scary story) and 'zadankai' (roundtable). Learning it helps you with many other words.

Soudan ni Noru

This is a beautiful idiom. It literally means to 'get on' the consultation, like getting on a boat together to navigate a problem.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'SOU' as 'SO many problems' and 'DAN' as 'DONE.' You have 'so' many problems that you need to talk to someone to get them 'done' (resolved).

Visual Association

Imagine two people sitting across a table with a lightbulb appearing between them as they talk. The table represents the 'mutual' (相) aspect and the talking represents 'dan' (談).

Word Web

Advice Help Meeting Problem Decision Friend Boss Lawyer

Challenge

Try to use 'soudan ga aru' at least once today with a Japanese speaker, even if it's for something small like 'what should I eat for lunch?'

Word Origin

The word '相談' originates from Middle Chinese roots. The character '相' (sou) originally depicted an eye looking at a tree, signifying 'observation' or 'mutual interaction.' The character '談' (dan) combines 'words' (言) with 'flame/heat' (炎), suggesting a 'heated' or 'passionate' conversation.

Original meaning: To mutually observe and converse to reach a conclusion.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

Be careful not to 'soudan' too much with busy superiors about things you should know yourself, as it can be seen as a lack of independence.

In English, 'consultation' sounds very formal (like a doctor or lawyer). In Japanese, 'soudan' covers both that formal level and the informal level of 'asking a friend for a favor.'

The 'Hou-Ren-Sou' business mantra. The 'Jinsei Soudan' columns in the Yomiuri Shimbun. The character 'Soudan-yaku' in various corporate-themed anime and manga.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Workplace

プロジェクトの相談
上司に相談する
相談に乗ってください
報告・連絡・相談

School

進路相談
先生に相談する
勉強の相談
悩み相談

Legal/Professional

法律相談
無料相談会
相談料
専門家に相談

Relationships

恋愛相談
友達に相談
相談に乗るよ
内密な相談

Family

親に相談
結婚の相談
将来の相談
家族会議で相談

Conversation Starters

"ちょっと相談があるんだけど、今いいかな？ (I have a consultation, is now okay?)"

"最近、何か悩み事とか相談したいことある？ (Lately, is there anything you're worried about or want to consult on?)"

"この仕事について、課長に相談したほうがいいと思います。 (I think it's better to consult the section manager about this job.)"

"進路のことで相談に乗ってほしいんだけど。 (I want you to listen to my consultation about my future path.)"

"誰に相談すればいいか分からなくて。 (I don't know who I should consult.)"

Journal Prompts

今日、誰かに相談したことはありますか？それは何についてでしたか？ (Did you consult someone today? What was it about?)

あなたが一番信頼している相談相手は誰ですか？なぜですか？ (Who is the consultation partner you trust most? Why?)

最近、友達の相談に乗ってあげたことがありますか？ (Have you given advice to a friend recently?)

相談せずに自分で決めて後悔したことはありますか？ (Have you ever regretted deciding something without consulting?)

もし魔法が使えたら、どんなことを魔法使いに相談したいですか？ (If you could use magic, what would you want to consult a wizard about?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it can be used for small things too, like 'soudan' with a friend about what to wear to a party. However, it does imply you want their actual opinion, not just a casual comment.

Yes, it is highly encouraged! In fact, the 'Hou-Ren-Sou' rule makes it a requirement in Japanese companies to consult your boss before taking action.

'Soudan suru' means you are the one asking for advice. 'Soudan ni noru' means you are the one listening and giving advice to someone else.

You can say 'Go-soudan shitai koto ga aru no desu ga' or more formally 'Go-soudan moushiagemasu.'

It is both. As a noun, it means 'consultation.' By adding 'suru,' it becomes the verb 'to consult.'

Yes, 'kenkou soudan' (health consultation) is a very common term for talking to a doctor about health concerns.

It is a title for a senior advisor, often a former executive who stays on to provide wisdom and guidance to the current leadership.

You can start an email with '...no ken de go-soudan desu' (I am consulting you regarding the matter of...) to clearly state your purpose.

Yes, professionals like lawyers and tax accountants charge a 'soudan-ryou' (consultation fee), usually per 30 minutes.

Yes, it is often used as a polite euphemism. Instead of saying 'I have a complaint,' people say 'Chotto go-soudan ga...' to bring up an issue.