A2 noun 8 min read

議会

gikai

When we talk about how a country or a region makes its rules and decisions, we often use the word 議会 (gikai). Think of it like a big meeting where elected people discuss and vote on laws.

It's similar to what you might call a parliament or an assembly in English. This is where the representatives of the people gather to work on the important matters of the government.

So, if you hear about a new law being passed or debated, it's very likely happening in the 議会.

When you're talking about the government, you'll definitely come across the word 議会 (gikai). This means 'parliament' or 'assembly.' It's where the laws are made and important decisions are discussed in a country or region.

Think of it as the main meeting place for elected officials. For example, in Japan, we have the National Diet (国会 - Kokkai), which is their 議会.

You might recognize 議会 (gikai) as the Japanese word for 'parliament' or 'assembly.' It refers to the main legislative body that makes laws in a country or region. Think of it like the US Congress or the UK Parliament.

This word is often used in news and political discussions, so understanding it is key for following current events in Japan. For example, you might hear about '国会' (kokkai), which is Japan's national parliament, or a local '市議会' (shigikai), which is a city assembly.

While the concept is similar to what you might know from your own country, the specific structure and functions of the Japanese Diet (National Diet of Japan) have their own nuances. However, for general understanding, 'parliament' is a good direct equivalent.

When talking about the government, you'll often hear the word 議会 (gikai), which means parliament or assembly. This term refers to the legislative body of a country or region. For example, the Japanese parliament is called the 国会 (kokkai), which is a specific type of 議会.

Understanding 議会 is key to discussing politics and current events in Japanese. You'll see it used in news reports and political discussions to refer to where laws are made and debated. It's a foundational word for civic discourse.

When discussing politics or government in Japanese, you'll often encounter the word 議会 (gikai). This term refers to a parliament or assembly, which is the main legislative body responsible for making laws in a country or region. It's a broad term that can apply to various levels of government, from national parliaments to local assemblies.

Understanding 議会 is key to comprehending Japanese political discourse, as it's where much of the decision-making happens. For example, the 国会 (kokkai), which is Japan's national parliament, is a type of 議会. You might hear phrases like 議会が開かれる (gikai ga hirakareru - the parliament convenes) or 議会で議論する (gikai de giron suru - to debate in parliament).

You might recognize 議 (gi) from words like 会議 (kaigi), meaning 'meeting', or 議論 (giron), meaning 'discussion'. This kanji generally conveys the idea of 'deliberation' or 'discussing'.

Then you have 会 (kai), which is seen in words like 会社 (kaisha), meaning 'company', or 集会 (shūkai), meaning 'assembly'. This kanji broadly means 'to meet' or 'assembly'.

So, when you put them together, 議会 (gikai) literally means something like a 'deliberative assembly' or 'discussion meeting', which perfectly describes a parliament or legislative body where people meet to discuss and make decisions.

議会 in 30 Seconds

  • 議会 (gikai) means parliament or assembly.
  • It's where laws are made for a country.
  • Think of it as the government's law-making group.

§ Understanding 議会 (gikai)

Japanese Word
議会 (gikai)
Part of Speech
Noun
CEFR Level
A2
Definition
Parliament; assembly. A legislative body of a country or region.

Let's break down how to use 議会 (gikai) in Japanese sentences. This word is pretty straightforward, but knowing how it combines with particles and other words will make your Japanese sound more natural.

§ Basic Usage with Particles

議会 (gikai) is a noun, so it will often be followed by particles that indicate its role in the sentence. Here are some common patterns:

  • 議会が (gikai ga): When 議会 is the subject of the sentence.
  • 議会は (gikai wa): When 議会 is the topic of the sentence.
  • 議会で (gikai de): To indicate a location where an action happens or the means by which something is done.
  • 議会に (gikai ni): To indicate a destination, a point in time, or an indirect object.
  • 議会の (gikai no): To show possession or modify another noun.

§ Examples in Context

Here are some practical examples of 議会 in sentences. Pay attention to the particles used and the overall sentence structure.

日本の議会は国会と呼ばれています。

Hint
Japan's parliament is called the Diet.

議会で新しい法律が議論されました。

Hint
A new law was debated in parliament.

彼は議会のメンバーです。

Hint
He is a member of parliament.

議会に請願書を提出した。

Hint
I submitted a petition to the assembly.

市長は議会で演説しました。

Hint
The mayor gave a speech at the assembly.

§ Common Phrases with 議会

You'll often hear or read 議会 as part of specific phrases. Knowing these will help you understand and use the word more naturally.

  • 議会選挙 (gikai senkyo): Parliamentary election.
  • 議会制度 (gikai seido): Parliamentary system.
  • 議会審議 (gikai shingi): Parliamentary deliberation.
  • 地方議会 (chihou gikai): Local assembly.

§ Putting it all together

To really get the hang of 議会, try making your own sentences. Think about how you would describe something happening at a parliament or assembly in your own country. Then, try to translate that into Japanese using the patterns and examples you've learned.

Remember:

  • 議会 is a formal word, referring to a legislative body.
  • Pay close attention to the particles like が, は, で, に, and to connect 議会 with other parts of your sentence.
  • Practice using it in different contexts to solidify your understanding.

Keep practicing, and you'll be using 議会 like a pro in no time!

§ What is 議会 (gikai)?

Japanese Word
議会 (gikai)
Part of Speech
Noun
CEFR Level
A2
Definition
Parliament; assembly. A legislative body of a country or region.

The word 議会 (gikai) refers to a legislative body. Think of it as the place where laws are made and important decisions for a country or region are discussed. It's a fundamental word for understanding how governments function in Japan and elsewhere.

§ Where you actually hear this word

You'll encounter 議会 (gikai) most often in contexts related to politics, news, and current events. It's not a word you'd typically use in casual conversation about your daily life, but it's crucial for understanding Japanese society and global affairs.

  • News and Media: This is by far the most common place to hear or read 議会. When reports cover governmental actions, debates, or elections, 議会 will be used frequently.
  • Politics and Government: If you work in or follow politics, this word is essential. It's used when talking about the Diet (Japan's parliament), local assemblies, or parliamentary systems in other countries.
  • Education: In history, civics, or current events classes, 議会 is a key term when discussing governmental structures and functions.

§ Examples of 議会 in Use

日本の議会は国会と呼ばれます。

Hint
Japan's parliament is called the National Diet.

議会で新しい法案が議論されています。

Hint
A new bill is being discussed in the parliament/assembly.

議会の選挙が来月行われます。

Hint
The city assembly elections will be held next month.

議会は国民の代表です。

Hint
The parliament/assembly is the representative of the people.

§ Don't Confuse 議会 (gikai) with 衆議院 (shūgiin) or 参議院 (sangiin)

Many learners, especially those new to Japanese politics, often use 議会 (gikai) interchangeably with 衆議院 (shūgiin - House of Representatives) or 参議院 (sangiin - House of Councillors). While related, they are not the same thing. 議会 (gikai) is the general term for a legislative body, like 'parliament' or 'assembly' in English. In Japan, the national parliament is called 国会 (kokkai), which is composed of two houses: the 衆議院 (shūgiin) and the 参議院 (sangiin).

DEFINITION
国会 (kokkai): The National Diet of Japan, the highest organ of state power and the sole law-making organ of the State.

So, while 衆議院 (shūgiin) and 参議院 (sangiin) are parts of the 議会 (gikai) at the national level (specifically 国会 - kokkai), 議会 (gikai) itself is a broader term. You can have a city 議会 (gikai) (市議会 - shigikai) or a prefectural 議会 (gikai) (県議会 - kengikai).

§ Using 議会 (gikai) for a 'Meeting' or 'Conference'

Another common error is to use 議会 (gikai) to refer to any general 'meeting' or 'conference.' This is incorrect. 議会 (gikai) specifically denotes a legislative assembly. For a general meeting, you should use terms like 会議 (kaigi), 打ち合わせ (uchi'awase), or ミーティング (mītingu - from English 'meeting').

DEFINITION
会議 (kaigi): A meeting, conference.
DEFINITION
打ち合わせ (uchi'awase): A business meeting, prior arrangement.

明日の会議は何時に始まりますか?

TRANSLATION HINT
What time does tomorrow's meeting start?

§ Incorrectly Using 議会 (gikai) for a 'Political Party'

Some learners might mistakenly use 議会 (gikai) when they mean a political party. A political party is an organization that shares a particular political ideology and aims to get its members elected to political office. 議会 (gikai) is the body where elected officials from various parties debate and vote on laws.

DEFINITION
政党 (seitō): A political party.

与党は新しい政策を提案しました。

TRANSLATION HINT
The ruling party proposed a new policy.

§ Misunderstanding the Scope of 議会 (gikai)

The term 議会 (gikai) can refer to legislative bodies at various levels, not just national. Learners sometimes assume it exclusively means the national parliament. While often used in that context, it's crucial to understand its flexibility.

  • 市議会 (shigikai): City council/assembly
  • 県議会 (kengikai): Prefectural assembly
  • 町議会 (chōgikai): Town assembly

彼は市議会のメンバーです。

TRANSLATION HINT
He is a member of the city council.

Always pay attention to the context to determine whether 議会 (gikai) refers to a national, prefectural, or municipal legislative body. The specific prefix (国 - koku for national, 都 - to for metropolitan, 道 - dō for Hokkaido, 府 - fu for Osaka/Kyoto, 県 - ken for prefecture, 市 - shi for city, 町 - chō for town, 村 - son for village) will usually clarify this.

§ What does 議会 (gikai) mean?

The Japanese word 議会 (gikai) refers to a parliament or an assembly. It's the legislative body that makes laws and governs a country or region. Think of it like the US Congress, the UK Parliament, or any similar governmental assembly.

Japanese Word
議会 (gikai)
Type
Noun
CEFR Level
A2
Definition
Parliament; assembly. A legislative body of a country or region.

§ Examples of 議会 (gikai) in use

Here are some practical examples to help you understand how to use 議会 in sentences.

日本には国会という議会があります。

Hint: Japan has a parliament called the National Diet.

市の議会で新しい法律が議論された。

Hint: A new law was discussed in the city's assembly.

彼女は議会のメンバーです。

Hint: She is a member of parliament/the assembly.

§ Similar words and when to use 議会 (gikai) vs alternatives

While 議会 is the most common and general term for a legislative body, there are a few related words you might encounter. Understanding the nuances will help you use them correctly.

  • 国会 (kokkai): This specifically refers to the National Diet of Japan, which is Japan's national parliament. If you're talking about the Japanese parliament, 国会 is the precise term to use. You would use 議会 for parliaments of other countries or general discussions about the concept of a parliament.

彼は国会議員です。

Hint: He is a member of the National Diet (of Japan). (Here, using 議会 instead of 国会 would still be understood, but 国会 is more specific and accurate in this context.)

  • 地方議会 (chihō gikai): This term refers to a local assembly, such as a prefectural assembly or a city assembly. It's a specific type of 議会 that operates at a local level, rather than national.

来週、地方議会の選挙があります。

Hint: There will be a local assembly election next week.

  • 市議会 (shigikai) / 県議会 (kengikai): These are even more specific. 市議会 means city assembly, and 県議会 means prefectural assembly. You'll use these when you need to be very precise about the level of government.

When to use 議会 (gikai):

  • When you're talking about a parliament or assembly in a general sense, not specific to Japan or a particular local body.
  • When referring to the legislative body of a foreign country.
  • As a general placeholder if you can't remember the more specific term, although it's always better to be precise if you know the context.

In summary, 議会 is your go-to word for 'parliament' or 'assembly' broadly. If you're talking about Japan's national parliament, use 国会. For local Japanese assemblies, use 地方議会 or the even more specific 市議会/県議会.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"国会で新しい法律が議論されています。(A new law is being debated in the National Diet.)"

Neutral

"議会は来週開かれます。(The assembly will open next week.)"

Informal

"政治の場で何が起きているの? (What's happening in the political arena?)"

Child friendly

"国の話し合いの場所で、みんなで大事なことを決めるんだよ。(At the country's discussion place, everyone decides important things together.)"

Grammar to Know

N + の + N: This particle の connects two nouns, indicating possession, modification, or a relationship between them. In the context of '議会', you might use it to specify a type of parliament or an action related to it.

日本の議会 (Nihon no gikai): Japan's parliament

N + で + V: The particle で indicates the location where an action takes place or the means by which an action is performed. When discussing '議会', it often signifies actions happening within the parliament.

議会で議論する (gikai de giron suru): to debate in parliament

N + が + V: The particle が marks the subject of a verb. When a new subject is introduced or emphasized in relation to '議会', が is used.

新しい法律が議会で可決された (atarashii houritsu ga gikai de kaketsu sareta): A new law was passed in parliament.

N + を + V: The particle を marks the direct object of a transitive verb. When '議会' is the object of an action, を is used.

議会を解散する (gikai o kaisan suru): to dissolve the parliament

N + に + V: The particle に indicates a direction, a recipient, a time, or a location where something exists. With '議会', it can indicate a movement towards the parliament or an action directed at it.

議会に提出する (gikai ni teishutsu suru): to submit to parliament

Examples by Level

1

議会は法律を作ります。

The parliament makes laws.

議会 (gikai) is the subject, は (wa) is the topic particle, 法律 (houritsu) means law, を (o) is the object particle, 作ります (tsukurimasu) means to make.

2

今日、議会で新しいことを話し合います。

Today, they will discuss new things in parliament.

今日 (kyou) means today, 議会で (gikai de) means in parliament (で indicates location of action), 新しいこと (atarashii koto) means new things, を話し合います (o hanashiaimasu) means to discuss.

3

その国には議会があります。

That country has a parliament.

その国 (sono kuni) means that country, には (ni wa) indicates existence, 議会 (gikai) is the subject, があります (ga arimasu) means to have/there is.

4

議会の会議は月曜日にあります。

The parliament meeting is on Monday.

議会 (gikai) modifies 会議 (kaigi - meeting), は (wa) is the topic particle, 月曜日 (getsuyoubi) means Monday, にあります (ni arimasu) means it is on/at.

5

議会の仕事はとても大切です。

The work of the parliament is very important.

議会 (gikai) modifies 仕事 (shigoto - work), は (wa) is the topic particle, とても (totemo) means very, 大切です (taisetsu desu) means important.

6

みんなで議会のニュースを見ました。

Everyone watched the parliament news.

みんなで (minna de) means everyone, 議会のニュース (gikai no nyuusu) means parliament news, を見ました (o mimashita) means watched.

7

次の議会はいつですか。

When is the next parliament (session)?

次の (tsugi no) means next, 議会 (gikai) is the subject, は (wa) is the topic particle, いつですか (itsu desu ka) means when is it?

8

議会は国民の声を聞きます。

The parliament listens to the voices of the people.

議会 (gikai) is the subject, は (wa) is the topic particle, 国民 (kokumin) means citizens/people, の声 (no koe) means voice, を聞きます (o kikimasu) means to listen.

1

議会は新しい法律を可決しました。

The parliament passed a new law.

「可決する (kaketsu suru)」means to pass a bill or resolution.

2

議会の会議は毎週月曜日に行われます。

Parliamentary meetings are held every Monday.

「行われる (okonawareru)」is the passive form of「行う (okonau)」, meaning to hold or conduct.

3

彼は議会のメンバーに選ばれました。

He was elected as a member of parliament.

「選ばれる (erabareru)」is the passive form of「選ぶ (erabu)」, meaning to choose or elect.

4

議会は国民の代表です。

The parliament is the representative of the people.

「代表 (daihyō)」means representative.

5

議会は予算について議論します。

The parliament discusses the budget.

「議論する (giron suru)」means to discuss or debate.

6

次の議会選挙は来年です。

The next parliamentary election is next year.

「選挙 (senkyo)」means election.

7

議会は市民の声を聞くべきです。

The parliament should listen to the voices of the citizens.

「聞くべき (kiku beki)」means should listen.

8

議会の決定は国に影響を与えます。

The decisions of the parliament affect the country.

「影響を与える (eikyō o ataeru)」means to influence or affect.

1

議会は新しい法律を可決しました。

Parliament passed a new law.

「可決する」means 'to pass (a bill, resolution)'.

2

その問題は議会で議論されるでしょう。

That issue will be debated in parliament.

「議論する」means 'to discuss, debate'.

3

議会の承認が必要です。

Parliamentary approval is necessary.

「承認」means 'approval'.

4

彼は議会のメンバーです。

He is a member of parliament.

「メンバー」is a loanword for 'member'.

5

議会選挙が来月行われます。

Parliamentary elections will be held next month.

「選挙」means 'election'.

6

議会は国民の代表です。

Parliament is the representative of the people.

「国民」means 'nation, people of a country'.

7

政府は議会に報告しました。

The government reported to parliament.

「報告する」means 'to report'.

8

議会の役割は重要です。

The role of parliament is important.

「役割」means 'role, part'.

1

議会は新しい法律を可決しました。

Parliament passed a new law.

2

議会の会期は通常、年に数回あります。

Parliamentary sessions are usually held several times a year.

3

彼は議会で重要な役割を担っています。

He plays an important role in parliament.

4

議会の決定は国民の生活に大きな影響を与えます。

Parliamentary decisions significantly affect people's lives.

5

議会は予算案について議論しました。

Parliament debated the budget bill.

6

議会は国民の代表で構成されています。

Parliament is composed of representatives of the people.

7

議会の権限は憲法によって定められています。

The powers of parliament are defined by the constitution.

8

議会は政府の活動を監視する役割も持っています。

Parliament also has the role of monitoring government activities.

Common Collocations

国会 議会 National Diet (Japan's parliament)
地方議会 local assembly
議会の解散 dissolution of parliament
議会選挙 parliamentary election
議会制民主主義 parliamentary democracy
議会の承認 parliamentary approval
議会の開会 opening of parliament
議会の閉会 closing of parliament
議会の決定 parliamentary decision
議会の役割 role of parliament

Common Phrases

議会が開催される

The parliament is held.

議会で議論する

to discuss in parliament

議会に提出する

to submit to parliament

議会の承認を得る

to get parliamentary approval

議会は法案を可決した。

The parliament passed the bill.

議会の多数派

the parliamentary majority

議会の少数派

the parliamentary minority

議会のメンバー

member of parliament

議会での演説

a speech in parliament

議会は国を代表する。

The parliament represents the country.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'gikai' as 'give care'. The parliament should 'give care' to the people they represent.

Visual Association

Imagine a grand building where important decisions are made, with many people debating inside. This building is the '議会' (gikai).

Word Web

国会 (kokkai - National Diet/Parliament of Japan) 法律 (hōritsu - law) 政治 (seiji - politics) 議員 (giin - member of parliament) 選挙 (senkyo - election)

Challenge

Try to use '議会' in a sentence about current events or a country you know. For example: 「日本の議会は…」 (Nihon no gikai wa... - The Japanese parliament is...)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

When talking about politics or government.

  • 議会で議論する (gikai de giron suru - to discuss in parliament)
  • 議会が開かれる (gikai ga hirakareru - parliament convenes)
  • 議会の決定 (gikai no kettei - parliamentary decision)

When referring to elections or legislative processes.

  • 議会選挙 (gikai senkyo - parliamentary election)
  • 議会を解散する (gikai o kaisan suru - to dissolve parliament)
  • 議会を通過する (gikai o tsūka suru - to pass through parliament)

When discussing news related to national or local government.

  • 議会ニュース (gikai nyūsu - parliamentary news)
  • 議会報告 (gikai hōkoku - parliamentary report)
  • 議会の動向 (gikai no dōkō - parliamentary trends)

When comparing legislative bodies in different countries.

  • 日本の議会 (Nihon no gikai - Japan's parliament)
  • アメリカの議会 (Amerika no gikai - America's congress)
  • 各国の議会 (kakkoku no gikai - parliaments of various countries)

When talking about the function or role of a legislative body.

  • 議会の役割 (gikai no yakuwari - role of parliament)
  • 議会の機能 (gikai no kinō - function of parliament)
  • 議会の権限 (gikai no kengen - authority of parliament)

Conversation Starters

"日本の議会について、どう思いますか? (Nihon no gikai ni tsuite, dō omoimasu ka? - What do you think about Japan's parliament?)"

"あなたの国の議会は、どんな役割がありますか? (Anata no kuni no gikai wa, donna yakuwari ga arimasu ka? - What kind of role does your country's parliament have?)"

"最近、議会で何か重要なことがありましたか? (Saikin, gikai de nanika jūyō na koto ga arimashita ka? - Has anything important happened in parliament recently?)"

"議会の決定は、私たちの生活にどう影響しますか? (Gikai no kettei wa, watashitachi no seikatsu ni dō eikyō shimasu ka? - How do parliamentary decisions affect our lives?)"

"もしあなたが議会のメンバーだったら、何をしたいですか? (Moshi anata ga gikai no menbā dattara, nani o shitai desu ka? - If you were a member of parliament, what would you want to do?)"

Journal Prompts

議会という言葉から何を連想しますか?あなたの国の議会の良い点と悪い点を書き出してみましょう。(Gikai to iu kotoba kara nani o rensō shimasu ka? Anata no kuni no gikai no yoi ten to warui ten o kakidashite mimashō. - What do you associate with the word 'parliament'? List the good and bad points of your country's parliament.)

もしあなたが政治家だったら、議会でどんな法案を提案したいですか?具体的に書いてみましょう。(Moshi anata ga seijika dattara, gikai de donna hōan o teian shitai desu ka? Gutaiteki ni kaite mimashō. - If you were a politician, what kind of bill would you want to propose in parliament? Write about it in detail.)

議会が私たちの生活に与える影響について、具体的な例を挙げて考えてみましょう。(Gikai ga watashitachi no seikatsu ni ataeru eikyō ni tsuite, gutaiteki na rei o agete kangaete mimashō. - Think about the impact parliament has on our lives, giving specific examples.)

過去の歴史の中で、議会が重要な役割を果たした出来事を調べてみましょう。それはなぜ重要だったのでしょうか? (Kako no rekishi no naka de, gikai ga jūyō na yakuwari o hatashita dekigoto o shirabete mimashō. Sore wa naze jūyō datta no deshou ka? - Research an event in history where parliament played an important role. Why was it important?)

「理想の議会」とはどんなものだと思いますか?その議会では何がどのように行われているでしょうか?(«Risō no gikai» to wa donna mono da to omoimasu ka? Sono gikai de wa nani ga dono yō ni okonawarete iru deshou ka? - What do you think an 'ideal parliament' would be like? What would be done and how would it be done in that parliament?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

That's a great question! Both 議会 (gikai) and 国会 (kokkai) refer to a legislative body, but there's a key distinction. 国会 (kokkai) specifically refers to the national parliament of Japan. It's the top-level legislative body. On the other hand, 議会 (gikai) is a broader term that can refer to any parliament or assembly, whether it's national, regional, or even local. So, 国会 is a type of 議会.

You can use 議会 in sentences just like you'd use 'parliament' or 'assembly' in English. For example:

議会は新しい法律を可決しました。 (Gikai wa atarashii hōritsu o kaketsu shimashita.)
The parliament passed a new law.

彼は市の議会議員です。 (Kare wa shi no gikai giin desu.)
He is a city council member (literally, a member of the city assembly).

議会 (gikai) is a formal term. You'll typically encounter it in news reports, political discussions, and official documents. It's not a word you'd usually use in casual conversation with friends.

Yes, there are! While 国会 (kokkai) is the national parliament, Japan also has local assemblies. These are called 地方議会 (chihō gikai), which literally means 'local assembly.' So, you have the national 議会 (国会) and then regional/local 議会 (地方議会).

The kanji for 議会 are 議 (gi) and 会 (kai).

議 (gi) means 'deliberation' or 'discussion.'
会 (kai) means 'meeting' or 'assembly.'

Together, they form 'deliberation meeting' or 'assembly for discussion,' which makes perfect sense for a legislative body!

No, 議会 (gikai) specifically refers to a legislative or political assembly. For a company board meeting, you would typically use terms like 取締役会 (torishimariyaku kai), which means 'board of directors meeting,' or just 会議 (kaigi), which means 'meeting' in a general sense.

Not really in everyday, casual conversations. As mentioned before, 議会 (gikai) is a formal term. You're much more likely to hear it when people are discussing politics, watching the news, or reading official reports. In a normal chat, you'd probably use more general terms if you were talking about a meeting or a group decision.

While 議会 is quite specific, 国会 (kokkai) is a very close synonym when you're talking about the national parliament of Japan. If you're looking for a more general term for a meeting or assembly that isn't necessarily legislative, 集会 (shūkai) meaning 'gathering' or 'meeting' could sometimes be used, but it lacks the official, legislative nuance of 議会.

The pronunciation for 議会 is ぎかい (gikai).

ぎ (gi) is like the 'gee' in 'geese'.
かい (kai) is like the 'kai' in 'sky' (but with a short 'a' sound, like in 'cat').

Listen carefully and try to mimic the sound!

Not always. While it can refer to a country's parliament (like the UK Parliament or the US Congress, which could be translated as 議会), it can also refer to a regional or local assembly. For example, a city council in Japan is a type of 議会 (市議会 - shigikai). So, it's a broader term than just a national parliament.

Test Yourself 84 questions

fill blank A1

日本の___は東京にあります。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

日本の立法機関は東京にある議会です。

fill blank A1

新しい法律は___で決められます。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

新しい法律は議会で決定されます。

fill blank A1

彼は___のメンバーです。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

He is a member of the parliament.

fill blank A1

多くの人が___の前でデモをしました。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

Many people demonstrated in front of the parliament.

fill blank A1

国の将来について___で議論します。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

They discuss the future of the country in the parliament.

fill blank A1

___は国民の代表です。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

The parliament represents the people.

listening A1

This is the parliament.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: これは議会です。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A1

I go to the parliament.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会に行きます。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening A1

The parliament is big.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会は大きいです。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

これは議会です。

Focus: Gi-kai

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

議会はどこですか。

Focus: Doko desu ka

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

私は議会で働きます。

Focus: Hatarakimasu

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
sentence order A1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 日本の議会

This phrase means 'Japan's parliament'. In Japanese, the possessive particle 'の' connects '日本' (Japan) and '議会' (parliament).

sentence order A1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会は大きい

This sentence means 'The parliament is big'. 'は' is a topic particle, and '大きい' means big.

sentence order A1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会で働く

This phrase means 'to work in parliament'. 'で' indicates the location of an action.

fill blank A2

日本の___は東京にあります。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

Japan's parliament is in Tokyo. '議会' means parliament.

fill blank A2

新しい法律は___で決められます。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

New laws are decided in parliament. '議会' refers to the legislative body.

fill blank A2

多くの国の___は国民によって選ばれます。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

Many countries' parliaments are chosen by the people. '議会' is the elected assembly.

fill blank A2

彼は___のメンバーです。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

He is a member of parliament. '議会' refers to the legislative assembly.

fill blank A2

___は国民の意見を代表します。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

The parliament represents the opinions of the people. '議会' is the representative body.

fill blank A2

その問題は___で議論されるでしょう。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

That issue will be discussed in parliament. '議会' is where discussions on national matters take place.

multiple choice A2

日本の_____は東京にあります。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

The sentence means 'Japan's ____ is in Tokyo.' The correct word to fill the blank is '議会' (parliament).

multiple choice A2

どの言葉が「legislative body」を意味しますか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

The question asks 'Which word means 'legislative body'?' The correct answer is '議会' (parliament; assembly).

multiple choice A2

国や地域の立法機関を指す言葉はどれですか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

The question asks 'Which word refers to a legislative body of a country or region?' The correct answer is '議会' (parliament; assembly).

true false A2

「議会」は国や地域の立法機関を指します。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

This statement is true. 「議会」 (gikai) means parliament or assembly, which is a legislative body of a country or region.

true false A2

「議会」は通常、娯楽施設です。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

This statement is false. 「議会」 is a legislative body, not an entertainment facility.

true false A2

日本の「議会」は大阪にあります。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

This statement is false. Japan's Parliament (国会) is in Tokyo.

sentence order A2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 日本の議会は国会です。

'日本の議会' means 'Japan's parliament'. '国会です' means 'is the National Diet'.

sentence order A2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 彼は議会で働いています。

'彼は' means 'He'. '議会で' means 'in the parliament'. '働いています' means 'is working'.

sentence order A2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会は新しい法律を作ります。

'議会は' means 'The parliament'. '新しい法律を' means 'new laws'. '作ります' means 'makes'.

multiple choice B1

日本の___は東京にあります。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

日本の立法機関は「議会」です。

multiple choice B1

新しい法律は、___で議論されます。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

法律は通常、「議会」で話し合われます。

multiple choice B1

彼は___のメンバーです。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

政治家は「議会」のメンバーです。

true false B1

議会は、国の法律を作る場所です。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

「議会」は立法府であり、法律を制定する役割があります。

true false B1

議会は通常、スポーツイベントを主催します。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

「議会」の主な役割は法律制定であり、スポーツイベントの主催ではありません。

true false B1

議会の会議は一般的に公開されています。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

多くの国の「議会」の会議は、透明性を保つために公開されています。

listening B1

The parliament will discuss a new law next week.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会は来週、新しい法律について話し合います。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening B1

That parliamentary decision affected many citizens.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: その議会の決定は、多くの市民に影響を与えました。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening B1

He is active as a member of parliament.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 彼は議会のメンバーとして活動しています。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

議会で重要な議論が行われました。

Focus: Gi-kai de jū-yō-na gi-ron ga oko-na-wa-re-mashi-ta.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

日本の国会は二院制です。

Focus: Nihon no Kok-kai wa ni-in-sei desu.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

地方議会は地域の発展に貢献します。

Focus: Chi-hō gi-kai wa chi-iki no hat-ten ni kō-ken shi-masu.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B1

Write a sentence describing what a 議会 (gikai) does.

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

Sample answer

議会は国の法律を決めます。 (Gikai wa kuni no hōritsu o kimemasu.) - The parliament decides the country's laws.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B1

Imagine you are explaining the word 議会 to a friend. Write a simple explanation in Japanese.

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

Sample answer

議会は、政治家が国のことについて話し合う大切な場所です。 (Gikai wa, seijika ga kuni no koto ni tsuite hanashiau taisetsu na basho desu.) - The parliament is an important place where politicians discuss matters of the country.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing B1

You read in the news that a new law was passed by the 議会. Write a short sentence about this.

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

Sample answer

新しい法律が議会で可決されました。 (Atarashii hōritsu ga gikai de kaketsu saremashita.) - A new law was passed by the parliament.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
reading B1

この文から、日本の議会について正しいものはどれですか?

Read this passage:

日本の議会は二院制で、衆議院と参議院があります。国民は選挙で議員を選びます。

この文から、日本の議会について正しいものはどれですか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 国民は選挙で議員を選びます。

パッセージに「国民は選挙で議員を選びます」と書かれています。 (The passage states that citizens elect representatives.)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 国民は選挙で議員を選びます。

パッセージに「国民は選挙で議員を選びます」と書かれています。 (The passage states that citizens elect representatives.)

reading B1

このパッセージから、議会が毎年議論する主要なテーマは何ですか?

Read this passage:

毎年、議会では国の予算について議論されます。これは国の経済にとって非常に重要です。

このパッセージから、議会が毎年議論する主要なテーマは何ですか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 国の予算

パッセージに「毎年、議会では国の予算について議論されます」と明確に書かれています。 (The passage clearly states that the parliament discusses the national budget every year.)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 国の予算

パッセージに「毎年、議会では国の予算について議論されます」と明確に書かれています。 (The passage clearly states that the parliament discusses the national budget every year.)

reading B1

地方の議会が扱う問題の例として、何が挙げられていますか?

Read this passage:

地方の議会は、その地域に住む人々の生活に密接に関わる問題を扱います。例えば、教育や交通などがそうです。

地方の議会が扱う問題の例として、何が挙げられていますか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 教育や交通

パッセージに「例えば、教育や交通などがそうです」と具体例が挙げられています。 (The passage provides examples such as education and transportation.)

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 教育や交通

パッセージに「例えば、教育や交通などがそうです」と具体例が挙げられています。 (The passage provides examples such as education and transportation.)

sentence order B1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 新しい 法律 が 議会 で 可決 されました。

This sentence means 'A new law was passed in the parliament.' The order builds a clear subject-verb-object structure with particles.

sentence order B1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: その 問題 は 議会 で 議論 される でしょう。

This sentence means 'That issue will probably be discussed in parliament.' The structure follows a common Japanese sentence pattern for future actions.

sentence order B1

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 政府 は 議会 に 予算案 を 提出 しました。

This sentence means 'The government submitted the budget proposal to the parliament.' It correctly orders the subject, indirect object, direct object, and verb.

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 新しい 法律案は 議会で 可決された。

This sentence means 'The new bill was passed in parliament.' The order follows a typical Japanese sentence structure: topic/subject, location/means, then verb.

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: その 問題は 議会で 議論される だろう。

This means 'That issue will be discussed in parliament.' The structure is 'topic + は', 'location + で', 'verb', and 'だろう' for conjecture.

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 市民は 議会に 改革を 求めた。

This translates to 'Citizens demanded reform from the parliament.' The particles 'は', 'に', and 'を' indicate the subject, indirect object, and direct object respectively.

multiple choice C1

日本の___は東京にあります。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

日本の立法機関である国会議事堂は東京にあります。

multiple choice C1

政府の重要な決定は、通常、___で議論されます。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

政府の重要な決定は、立法機関である議会で議論されます。

multiple choice C1

新しい法律は___で承認されなければなりません。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会

新しい法律は、立法機関である議会によって承認される必要があります。

true false C1

「議会」は国の法律を作る場所を指します。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

「議会」は、国の立法機関を意味し、法律を制定する場所です。

true false C1

「議会」は通常、政府の行政部門の一部です。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

「議会」は立法部門の一部であり、行政部門とは異なります。

true false C1

国会議員は「議会」の一員です。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: True

国会議員は、国の立法機関である「議会」を構成する人々です。

listening C1

The new law was passed with the approval of the Diet.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 議会の承認を得て、新しい法律が可決されました。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening C1

He is expected to play an important role in the parliament.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 彼は議会で重要な役割を果たすと期待されています。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening C1

The next session of the assembly is scheduled for next month.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 次の議会は来月開催される予定です。
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

議会での議論は白熱しました。

Focus: ぎかい

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

議会は国民の意見を反映すべきです。

Focus: こくみん

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

議会の解散は、総選挙につながります。

Focus: かいさん

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing C2

Imagine you are a political journalist covering a major legislative debate. Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) describing the atmosphere in the 議会 and what key issues are being discussed. You can focus on a real or imagined country.

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

Sample answer

今日の議会では、経済再生法案が熱心に議論されています。議員たちは各々の立場から意見を述べ、その場の雰囲気は非常に緊迫していました。国民の期待を背負い、この法案が可決されるかどうかが注目されます。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing C2

You are preparing a presentation for an international conference on comparative politics. Write an introductory sentence for a slide that compares the role of 議会 in different democratic systems. Your sentence should be formal and academic.

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

Sample answer

民主主義国家における議会の役割は多様であり、各国の政治制度を比較する上でその機能を深く考察する必要がある。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing C2

Write a short email (2-3 sentences) to a colleague summarizing the outcome of a recent parliamentary vote on a controversial bill. Be concise and professional.

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

Sample answer

先日行われた議会の採決により、懸案の法案は僅差で可決されました。この結果が今後の政策に与える影響は大きいと思われます。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
reading C2

この文章によると、デジタル化によって議会におけるどのような課題が生じていますか?

Read this passage:

近年のデジタル化の進展に伴い、議会における情報公開のあり方も大きく変化しています。多くの国で、議会での審議内容や投票結果がリアルタイムでオンライン公開されるようになり、国民が政治プロセスに参加しやすくなりました。しかし、その一方で、情報過多による混乱や、正確性の検証が課題となっています。

この文章によると、デジタル化によって議会におけるどのような課題が生じていますか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 情報過多と情報源の正確性の検証。

文章の最後の部分に「情報過多による混乱や、正確性の検証が課題となっています」と明記されています。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 情報過多と情報源の正確性の検証。

文章の最後の部分に「情報過多による混乱や、正確性の検証が課題となっています」と明記されています。

reading C2

この議会で現在、最も議論されているトピックは何ですか?

Read this passage:

ある国の議会では、国の予算案について連日激しい議論が交わされています。与党は景気回復を最優先とする姿勢を示し、大規模な財政出動を提案していますが、野党は将来世代への負担増を懸念し、歳出削減を強く求めています。両者の意見の溝は深く、予算案の可決にはまだ時間がかかりそうです。

この議会で現在、最も議論されているトピックは何ですか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 国の予算案

文章の冒頭で「国の予算案について連日激しい議論が交わされています」と述べられています。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 国の予算案

文章の冒頭で「国の予算案について連日激しい議論が交わされています」と述べられています。

reading C2

日本の議会が二院制を採用している主な目的は何ですか?

Read this passage:

日本の議会は、衆議院と参議院の二院制を採用しています。これは、慎重な審議を可能にし、民意をより正確に反映させることを目的としています。衆議院は解散があり、議員の任期も短いことから、より国民の意見が反映されやすいとされています。一方、参議院は解散がなく、長期的な視点での政策決定に貢献すると考えられています。

日本の議会が二院制を採用している主な目的は何ですか?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 慎重な審議と民意の正確な反映のため。

文章中に「慎重な審議を可能にし、民意をより正確に反映させることを目的としています」と明記されています。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 慎重な審議と民意の正確な反映のため。

文章中に「慎重な審議を可能にし、民意をより正確に反映させることを目的としています」と明記されています。

/ 84 correct

Perfect score!

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