友好

• Reading: ゆうこう
• Romaji: yuukou
• Kanji breakdown: 友 (yū) — friend; 好 (kō) — good, fond
• Pronunciation: /jɯː.koː/

Meaning

Friendship; amity; friendly relations. Describes warm, cooperative relationships between groups or nations.

A noun often used in diplomatic and formal contexts rather than personal friendships (for which 友情 or 友達 are more natural). Common compounds include 友好関係 (friendly relations), 友好的 (friendly, as a na-adjective), and 友好都市 (sister city). Appears frequently in news about international relations.

Examples

1. 両国は長年にわたり友好関係を築いてきた。 This medicine is said to be effective for headaches.
2. 友好的な態度で交渉に臨むべきだ。 The coupon's expiration date is the end of next month.
3. この街は中国の都市と友好都市になっている。 It's important to use your time effectively.

Usage Guide

Context: diplomacy, international relations, news

Tone: diplomatic

Origin & History

Compound of 友 (yū, friend) and 好 (kō, good/fond). Together, 'good friendship' — a harmonious relationship built on mutual goodwill.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal