Meaning and Usage
"交渉" (こうしょう) means "negotiation" or "bargaining" and is used in formal or business contexts where two or more parties discuss terms to reach an agreement. It often involves discussions about prices, contracts, labor conditions, or other important matters.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see "交渉" used in business settings, labor relations, or diplomatic talks. It implies a process of give-and-take and requires communication skills.
Collocations and Patterns
- 交渉を始める (start negotiations): used when initiating talks.
- 価格の交渉 (price negotiation): common in buying/selling contexts.
- 交渉が成立する (negotiations succeed): when an agreement is reached.
- 交渉が難航する (negotiations are difficult): when talks are tough.
Register and Nuance
"交渉" is a formal noun and is often paired with verbs like "する" (to do) to form "交渉する" (to negotiate). It is not casual and is mostly used in professional or official conversations.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "交渉" with simpler words like "話す" (to talk) or "相談" (consultation). Remember, "交渉" specifically implies negotiation with the goal of reaching an agreement, not just casual talking or advice.