Meaning and Usage
"機会" (きかい) means "chance" or "opportunity" and is commonly used to talk about favorable moments or occasions to do something. It is a noun and often appears in both formal and casual contexts.
Common Collocations
- 機会を逃す (きかいをのがす): to miss an opportunity
- 機会があれば (きかいがあれば): if there is a chance
- 良い機会 (よいきかい): a good opportunity
Usage Notes
When using "機会," speakers imply a positive chance or occasion that should be taken advantage of. It is often used when encouraging someone or expressing a desire to do something if the chance arises.
Be careful not to confuse "機会" with "機械" (きかい), which means "machine." They are homophones but have very different meanings.
Register
"機会" is neutral and appropriate in both spoken and written Japanese, including business and everyday conversation.