円滑

• Reading: えんかつ
• Romaji: enkatsu
• Kanji breakdown: 円 (en) — round, circle, smooth; 滑 (katsu) — slide, smooth, slippery
• Pronunciation: /eɴ.ka.tsɯ/

Meaning

Smooth; harmonious; without friction. Describes processes or relationships running well.

A na-adjective describing the smooth, trouble-free flow of activities, communication, or relationships. Common collocations include 円滑に進む (to proceed smoothly), 円滑なコミュニケーション (smooth communication), and 円滑な人間関係 (harmonious interpersonal relations). Primarily used in formal and business contexts.

Examples

1. 会議が円滑に進むように資料を準備した。 I prepared the materials so the meeting would go smoothly.
2. 円滑なコミュニケーションがチームの成功の鍵だ。 Smooth communication is the key to the team's success.
3. 新しいシステムの導入が円滑に行われた。 The introduction of the new system went smoothly.

Usage Guide

Context: business, communication, project management, relationships

Tone: professional

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 円 (en, round/circle/smooth) + 滑 (katsu, slide/smooth). Literally 'round and sliding' — moving without bumps or friction, like a well-oiled wheel.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Professional