開会

かいかい

opening of a meeting

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "開会" (かいかい) specifically refers to the opening or start of a meeting, conference, or formal gathering. It is a noun often used in formal or business contexts to indicate the moment when a meeting officially begins.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "開会" used in phrases like "開会式" (opening ceremony) or "開会の挨拶" (opening address). It is typically paired with verbs like "する" (to do) or "行う" (to conduct) when describing the act of opening a meeting.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 開会式 (かいかいしき): opening ceremony, used for formal events or conferences.
  • 開会の挨拶 (かいかいのあいさつ): opening remarks or address, usually by a host or important figure.
  • 開会する (かいかいする): to open a meeting or event.

Register and Nuance

"開会" is formal and used in official or business settings. It is not used for casual meetings or informal gatherings. For casual meetings, words like "始める" (to start) or "集まる" (to gather) are more common.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "開会" with "開始" (かいし), which also means "start" but is more general and can apply to events, actions, or processes beyond meetings. Use "開会" specifically for meetings or assemblies.

Example Sentences

かいぎのかいかいはごぜんくじです。

The opening of the meeting is at 9 a.m.

かいかいのあいさつをしゃちょうがおこないました。

The president gave the opening address.

かいかいしきではこっかがうたわれました。

The national anthem was sung at the opening ceremony.