协商

• Pinyin: xié shāng
• Hanzi breakdown: 协 = 十 (ten) + 办 (handle), meaning to cooperate; 商 = originally depicted a merchant or discussion

Meaning

To consult; to negotiate; consultation. To discuss in order to reach an agreement.

A formal term for negotiations or discussions aimed at consensus. Used in political, business, and diplomatic contexts. 政治协商 (political consultation) is a key concept in Chinese governance (CPPCC). Related: 协商解决 (resolve through negotiation).

Examples

1. 双方就价格问题进行了多轮协商，最终达成了协议。 Both parties conducted multiple rounds of negotiations on price issues and finally reached an agreement.
2. 劳资纠纷应该通过协商解决，而不是诉诸法律。 Labor disputes should be resolved through negotiation rather than resorting to legal action.
3. 这个方案需要和相关部门协商后才能实施。 This plan needs to be discussed with relevant departments before it can be implemented.

Usage Guide

Context: business, politics, diplomacy, legal

Tone: diplomatic

Do Say

• 这件事需要进一步协商。(This matter requires further consultation.)
• 我们应该坐下来协商解决。(We should sit down and negotiate a solution.)

Don't Say

• 我和朋友协商今天吃什么 — 日常小事用'商量'更自然，协商偏正式

Origin & History

Compound of 协 (to cooperate, jointly) + 商 (to discuss, commerce). Together meaning to discuss together for mutual agreement.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal