主導権

• Reading: しゅどうけん
• Romaji: shudouken
• Kanji breakdown: 主 (shu/nushi) — main, master; 導 (dou/michibi) — guide, lead; 権 (ken/gon) — right, authority
• Pronunciation: /ɕɯ.doː.keɴ/

Meaning

Hegemony; leadership; initiative; the right or power to lead.

A noun formed by adding 権 (right/authority) to 主導. Refers to the authority or dominant position to direct events or outcomes. Frequently used with 握る (nigiru, to grasp) meaning 'to seize the initiative.' Common in political, diplomatic, and competitive contexts.

Examples

1. 交渉の主導権を握ることが重要だ。 It is important to seize the initiative in negotiations.
2. 後半に入ってから主導権が相手チームに移った。 Once the second half started, the initiative shifted to the opposing team.
3. 市場の主導権を巡って各社が競争している。 Companies are competing for leadership in the market.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, diplomacy, business strategy, sports

Tone: assertive

Origin & History

Compound of 主導 (shudou, leadership) + 権 (ken, right/authority). Literally 'the right of leadership,' formalising the concept of holding dominant influence over a situation.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional