対決

たいけつ

confrontation, showdown

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"対決" (たいけつ) refers to a direct confrontation or showdown between two parties, often implying a serious or competitive encounter. It is commonly used in contexts such as sports, politics, or any situation where two sides face off.

Common Collocations

  • 対決する: to confront or face off
  • 真剣な対決: a serious showdown
  • 対決の場: the scene or place of confrontation

Nuances

Using "対決" often implies a formal or intense encounter rather than a casual disagreement. It carries a sense of competition or conflict where both sides are actively opposing each other.

Register and Politeness

"対決" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it tends to appear more in written or formal spoken Japanese, such as news reports or serious discussions.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "対決" with more general words for conflict like "けんか" (fight) or "争い" (dispute). "対決" specifically highlights the aspect of a face-to-face confrontation or showdown, often with a competitive or decisive tone.

Example Sentences

あしたのしあいはりょうチームのしんけんなたいけつになるだろう。

Tomorrow's match will be a serious showdown between the two teams.

せいじかどうしのたいけつはテレビでなまちゅうけいされた。

The confrontation between the politicians was broadcast live on TV.

かれらのたいけつはちょうじかんにわたり、どちらもゆずらなかった。

Their confrontation lasted for hours, with neither side yielding.