同意

• Reading: どうい
• Romaji: doui
• Kanji breakdown: 同 (dou) — same, together; 意 (i) — intention, meaning, will
• Pronunciation: /doː.i/

Meaning

Agreement; consent; approval given after understanding and accepting a proposal or idea.

A noun and suru-verb meaning to agree or give consent. Used in both casual and formal contexts. In legal and medical settings, 同意書 (consent form) is essential. Differs from 賛成 (agreement/approval in voting) in that 同意 emphasises mutual understanding and personal acceptance. Can be used with に to indicate what one agrees to: 提案に同意する (to agree to a proposal).

Examples

1. 彼の意見に同意する人が多かった。 Many people agreed with his opinion.
2. 手術の前に患者の同意を得る必要がある。 It is necessary to obtain the patient's consent before surgery.
3. 全員が同意したので計画を進めることにした。 Since everyone agreed, we decided to move forward with the plan.

Usage Guide

Context: legal, medical, business, discussion

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 同 (dou, same/together) + 意 (i, intention/meaning). Literally 'same intention,' conveying the idea that two or more parties share the same view or will.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal