合意

• Reading: ごうい
• Romaji: goi
• Kanji breakdown: 合 (gou/a) — combine, match; 意 (i) — intention, will
• Pronunciation: /ɡo.ː.i/

Meaning

Agreement; consent; mutual understanding reached between parties.

A noun (also する verb) denoting a formal or informal agreement reached through negotiation or discussion. Distinct from 同意 (personal agreement/consent) in that 合意 implies a two-way or multi-party convergence of views. Extremely common in legal, diplomatic, business, and journalistic contexts.

Examples

1. 両社は契約内容についてついに合意に達した。 The two companies finally reached an agreement on the terms of the contract.
2. 合意なき離脱は、双方に深刻な経済的打撃を与える可能性がある。 A no-deal withdrawal could deal serious economic blows to both sides.
3. 参加者全員の合意を得てから、最終決定を下すべきだ。 The final decision should be made only after obtaining the consent of all participants.

Usage Guide

Context: law, business, diplomacy, negotiations

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From 合 (gou, to combine/match) and 意 (i, intention/will). A Chinese-origin compound meaning the convergence of intentions, widely used in modern Japanese legal and administrative language.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal