息が合う

• Reading: いきがあう
• Romaji: iki ga au
• Kanji breakdown: 息 (soku/iki) — breath, respiration; 合 (gō/a) — fit, match, join
• Pronunciation: /i.ki.ɡa.a.ɯ/

Meaning

To be in sync; to be in perfect harmony. When people work or perform together seamlessly as if breathing in unison.

An idiomatic expression using Group 1 (godan) verb 合う (to match). Literally means one's breath matches. Used for teamwork, partnerships, musical ensembles, or any situation where people coordinate effortlessly. Implies a level of mutual understanding that goes beyond practice.

Examples

1. あの二人はいつも息が合っている。 Those two are always in perfect sync.
2. 長年の経験で息が合うようになった。 Years of experience brought them into perfect harmony.
3. 息が合ったプレーでチームは優勝した。 The team won the championship with perfectly coordinated play.

Usage Guide

Context: teamwork, sports, performing arts

Tone: positive

Origin & History

From the concept of breathing in rhythm together. In traditional Japanese arts like taiko drumming and kabuki, performers must synchronise their breathing to achieve perfect timing.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal