まとまり

• Reading: まとまり
• Romaji: matomari
• Kanji breakdown: 纏 (ten/mato) — to wind around, gather (complex kanji, rarely written)
• Pronunciation: /ma.to.ma.ɾi/

Meaning

Unity; coherence; the quality of things coming together. Also refers to the successful conclusion of negotiations or the resolution of a matter.

The noun form of the Group 1 verb まとまる ('to come together, be settled'). Used to describe cohesion within a group, the organised quality of writing or planning, or the successful closure of discussions. Its absence, まとまりがない, is a common criticism meaning 'disorganised' or 'incoherent.' Widely applicable across social, professional, and creative contexts.

Examples

1. このレポートはまとまりがなく、全体として読みにくい。 This report lacks coherence and is difficult to read as a whole.
2. チームのまとまりが今大会の勝因だったと監督は語った。 The coach said that the team's unity was the key to their victory in this tournament.
3. 長い交渉の末、話し合いにまとまりが見えてきた。 After lengthy negotiations, the discussions finally began to show signs of coming together.

Usage Guide

Context: education, business, writing, everyday conversation

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the verb まとまる (matomaru, 'to come together, be settled'), derived from まとめる (matomeru, 'to put together, compile'). The nominalising suffix り forms the noun from the verb stem.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal