言質

• Reading: げんち
• Romaji: genchi
• Kanji breakdown: 言 (gen) — words, speech | 質 (chi) — pledge, collateral, security
• Pronunciation: /ɡen.tɕi/

Meaning

A verbal commitment; one's word; a statement that can be held as a pledge or promise.

A noun combining 言 (words) and 質 (pledge, collateral). Historically, 質 referred to something held as security — a hostage or pawned item. 言質 therefore means words given as security, i.e. a statement one can be held to. Common in legal, political, and formal negotiation contexts. Often appears as 言質を与える (to give one's word) or 言質を取る (to obtain a commitment).

Examples

1. 大臣は記者会見で言質を与えることを巧みに避けた。 The minister skillfully avoided giving any verbal commitment at the press conference.
2. 一度与えた言質は守らなければ、政治家としての信用を失う。 If you don't honor a commitment you've already given, you'll lose your credibility as a politician.
3. 彼から言質を取ろうとしたが、いつも曖昧な返答しかもらえなかった。 I tried to get a firm statement from him, but all I ever got were vague responses.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, law, negotiation, journalism

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 言 (gen) meaning 'words' and 質 (chi) meaning 'pledge, security, collateral'. The classical sense of 質 as something held as a guarantee gives 言質 its connotation of binding verbal commitment.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated