交渉する

• Reading: こうしょうする
• Romaji: koushou suru
• Kanji breakdown: 交 (kō) — intersect, exchange; 渉 (shō) — cross, ford, wade
• Pronunciation: /koː.ɕoː.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To negotiate; to bargain; to conduct discussions to reach an agreement.

A する verb for formal discussion aimed at reaching a deal or settlement. Used in business, diplomacy, labour relations, and daily life (e.g. negotiating rent). Common phrases: 交渉の余地がある (there is room for negotiation), 団体交渉 (collective bargaining), 交渉力 (negotiating power). More formal than 話し合う (to discuss/talk things over).

Examples

1. 給料を上げてもらうために上司と交渉した。 I negotiated with my boss to get a raise.
2. 両国の代表が平和条約について交渉している。 Representatives from both countries are negotiating a peace treaty.
3. 家賃の値下げを大家さんに交渉してみよう。 Let's try negotiating a rent reduction with the landlord.

Usage Guide

Context: business, diplomacy, labour relations

Tone: professional

Origin & History

Compound of 交 (intersect, mix, exchange) + 渉 (cross, ford, wade). Originally meant to cross paths or interact, evolving into formal discussion and negotiation.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal