和解
wakai[β̞a̠ka̠i]
The Japanese word for reconciliation is 和解 (wakai).
和解 refers to the re-establishment of friendly relations or a settlement. In a legal context, it is specifically used to describe an out-of-court settlement or an amicable resolution between disputing parties.
Meaning: re-establishment of friendly relations (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the characters 和 (harmony/peace) and 解 (untie/solve), literally meaning 'to untie or resolve a conflict to restore harmony'.
How do you pronounce it?
wakai
Did you know?
- The character 和 in 和解 is the same character used to mean 'Japanese' when referring to things of native origin, such as 和食 for 'Japanese food'.
- In Japanese legal terms, a 和解 can be a binding contract, meaning the 'peace' achieved is not just a feeling but a legal obligation.
- While 和解 focuses on the settlement, the social process of initiating it often requires 謝罪, an apology that carries a far more profound weight of social obligation than the English word 'apology'.
Examples in context
- 宗教間の和解は、世界平和の礎である。Reconciliation among religions is the foundation of world peace.This sentence illustrates the use of 和解 regarding religious groups.Tatoeba #3475196 by arnab, translation #3475342 by tabidots
- お会いできて嬉しいです。これから和解を図る方法について話し合いましょう。I am happy to see you. Let's discuss how to seek reconciliation from now on.
- 自分も同じく和解を望んでおります。一緒に問題を解決しましょう。I also hope for reconciliation. Let's solve the problem together.
- 最近ちょっと気まずかったけど、仲直りしよう。It's been a bit awkward lately, but let's make up.
- 二人の和解を願っています。Futari no wakai o negatte imasu.I hope for the reconciliation of the two of them.
- 長年の争いの末に、ようやく和解した。Naganen no arasoi no sue ni, youyaku wakai shita.After many years of conflict, they finally reached a reconciliation.
Example conversation
A woman asks a man about a conflict between two friends.
- 陽葵 Himariあの二人は、まだ仲直りしていないの？Ano futari wa, mada nakanaori shite inai no?Have those two not made up yet?
- 大翔 Hirotoええ、まだ和解の道は見えていません。Ee, mada wakai no michi wa miete imasen.No, the path to reconciliation is not yet in sight.
- 陽葵 Himari早く仲良くなってほしいですね。Hayaku nakayoku natte hoshii desu ne.I really want them to get along again.
- 大翔 Hirotoそうですね、私もそう思います。Sou desu ne, watashi mo sou omoimasu.I agree, I think so too.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “reconciliation” translations and entries 和解, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
