会議 — meaning in English: Conference

Usage

Native speakers often use 会議 (kaigi) in professional settings, such as in corporate offices or academic institutions, to discuss important topics. For instance, during a staff meeting to strategize quarterly goals or in a university setting to present research findings.

Synonyms & nuances

While 会議 (kaigi) refers specifically to a formal conference or meeting, another word, ミーティング (mītingu), which is derived from the English 'meeting', is often used in more casual contexts. You would choose 会議 when discussing official matters or formal discussions, while ミーティング might be used for less formal gatherings.

Culture

The word 会議 has its roots in the characters 会 (kai), meaning 'meeting', and 議 (gi), meaning 'discuss' or 'deliberate'. In Japan, the concept of group consensus is highly valued, making meetings an integral part of decision-making processes in both corporate and social contexts. Interestingly, the ritual of holding a 会議 can sometimes involve extensive preparation and even formalities that may seem excessive to outsiders, reflecting the Japanese cultural emphasis on respect and thoroughness.

FAQ