Meaning and Usage
"合議" (ごうぎ) refers to a process of consultation or conference where multiple people discuss and decide on a matter together. It often implies a formal or official setting, such as meetings, judicial decisions, or organizational discussions.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in legal, business, and administrative contexts where decisions are made collectively rather than individually. For example, judges may reach a verdict by 合議, or a committee may decide on a policy after 合議.
Collocations and Patterns
- 合議の上で (ごうぎのうえで): "after consultation"; used to indicate that a decision was made following discussion.
- 合議制 (ごうぎせい): "system of consultation"; refers to a decision-making system based on group discussion.
- 合議で決定する (ごうぎでけっていする): "to decide by consultation"; emphasizes collective decision-making.
Register and Nuance
"合議" is a formal term, often used in official or professional contexts. It is not commonly used in casual conversation. When using it, the speaker implies a serious, collective decision-making process.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "合議" with simple "相談" (consultation) or "会議" (meeting). However, "合議" specifically emphasizes the collective decision-making aspect, often with a formal or legal nuance. Avoid using it for casual or informal discussions.