協調

• Reading: きょうちょう
• Romaji: kyouchou
• Kanji breakdown: 協 (kyō) — cooperate; 調 (chō) — harmonise, tune, investigate
• Pronunciation: /kjoː.tɕoː/

Meaning

Co-operation; conciliation; harmony. Working together while maintaining balance between parties.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (協調する). Emphasises mutual adjustment and working in harmony rather than mere teamwork. Distinct from 強調 (emphasis, same pronunciation). Key compounds include 協調性 (co-operativeness, a trait highly valued in Japanese workplaces), 国際協調 (international cooperation), and 協調路線 (conciliatory approach). Often appears in job descriptions and performance reviews.

Examples

1. 国際的な協調が今こそ必要だ。 International cooperation is needed now more than ever.
2. 彼は協調性があって職場で信頼されている。 He is cooperative and trusted at work.
3. 各部門が協調して問題を解決した。 Each department worked together to solve the problem.

Usage Guide

Context: business, international relations, human resources

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Compound of 協 (kyō, cooperate) and 調 (chō, harmonise/tune). Literally 'cooperating in harmony' — working together with mutual adjustment.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Working adults

Social background: Professional