相談

• Reading: そうだん
• Romaji: soudan
• Kanji breakdown: 相 (sō) — mutual, together; 談 (dan) — talk, discuss
• Pronunciation: /so.ɯ.da.n/

Meaning

Consultation; discussion. Asking someone for advice or talking something over together.

Functions as a noun or する verb (相談する). Central to Japanese decision-making culture where seeking input before acting is valued. Part of the ほうれんそう (報告・連絡・相談) business communication framework. Often used with に (the person consulted) and について (the topic).

Examples

1. 将来のことを両親に相談した。 I consulted my parents about my future.
2. 困ったことがあれば、いつでも相談してね。 If you're having trouble, feel free to talk to me anytime.
3. 転職について友人に相談しています。 I'm consulting a friend about changing jobs.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, workplace, relationships

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 相 (sō, mutual/together) and 談 (dan, talk/discuss). Literally means to talk together, reflecting the collaborative nature of seeking advice.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal