国交

• Reading: こっこう
• Romaji: kokkou
• Kanji breakdown: 国 (koku) — country, nation; 交 (kō) — interchange, associate
• Pronunciation: /kok.koː/

Meaning

Diplomatic relations; the official relationship between nations.

A noun referring to the formal diplomatic relationship between two countries. Common phrases: 国交を結ぶ (to establish diplomatic relations), 国交を断絶する (to sever diplomatic ties), 国交正常化 (normalisation of diplomatic relations). An important term in Japanese history and current affairs, especially regarding relations with neighbouring countries.

Examples

1. 両国は1972年に国交を正常化した。 The two countries normalized diplomatic relations in 1972.
2. 国交がない国とは直接貿易ができない場合がある。 In some cases, direct trade may not be possible with countries without diplomatic relations.
3. 国交を断絶するのは外交上の最終手段だ。 Severing diplomatic relations is a last resort in diplomacy.

Usage Guide

Context: diplomacy, international relations, history

Tone: formal

Origin & History

Compound of 国 (country, nation) + 交 (interchange, associate). Together they describe the mutual exchange and association between nations — their diplomatic relationship.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal