賛否両論
sampiryōron
The English phrase "pros and cons" is translated into Japanese as 賛否両論 (sampiryōron).
Meaning: for and against (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the characters for 'approval' (賛), 'disapproval' (否), 'both' (両) and 'theory/argument' (論), literally meaning "pros and cons are both present."
How does it change in a sentence?
To say "there are pros and cons," you add the verb aru (to exist/to be) after the noun to form 賛否両論ある.
How do you pronounce it?
sampiryōron
Did you know?
- In Japanese business or formal debates, you might hear the term 是非 (zehi) used to discuss the merits of a plan, even though in daily life it is most commonly used to mean 'by all means' or 'definitely'.
- While 賛否両論 describes a situation with divided opinions, Japanese people often use the phrase メリット・デメリット (merit/demerit) when listing the actual practical advantages and disadvantages of a product.
- In Japanese media, a topic described as 賛否両論 is often a 'hot button' issue that is intentionally provocative or polarizing rather than just a balanced debate.
Examples in context
- この映画の評価は賛否両論です。Kono eiga no hyouka wa sanpi ryouron desu.The reviews for this movie are mixed with pros and cons.
Example conversation
Ren and Yui are discussing a new city project.
- 蓮 Renこの再開発計画はどう思う？Kono saikaihatsu keikaku wa dō omou?What do you think of this redevelopment plan?
- 結衣 Yuiうーん、賛否両論だね。Ūn, sanpi ryōron da ne.Hmm, it has its pros and cons.
- 蓮 Renやっぱり反対する人もいるよね。Yappari hantai suru hito mo iru yo ne.I guess some people are against it.
- 結衣 Yuiそうだね、意見が分かれているよ。Sō da ne, iken ga wakarete iru yo.Right, opinions are divided.
