Meaning
to consult; to ask for advice; to discuss; to talk something over
Nuance & Usage
相談する means to consult someone or discuss a problem to seek advice. It is one of the three key verbs in Japanese workplace culture (報告・連絡・相談 — report, inform, consult). 相談を受ける (receive a consultation) is what the advisor does. Common expressions: 相談に乗る (to listen to someone's concerns/give advice), 悩みを相談する (consult about a worry), 相談窓口 (consultation desk/counter). The noun 相談 alone can be used: 相談がある (I have something I want to discuss).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 相談する (to consult/discuss for advice) with 話し合う (hanashiau — to discuss/negotiate for decision-making) or 質問する (shitsumon suru — to ask a question). 相談する implies seeking guidance or advice; 話し合う is more about working something out together. The key phrase: 〇〇について相談したいのですが (I would like to consult you about ○○...) is a polite way to initiate a consultation.
Example Sentences
将来のことについて先生に相談しました。
しょうらいのことについてせんせいにそうだんしました。
I consulted my teacher about my future.
困ったことがあったら、いつでも相談してください。
こまったことがあったら、いつでもそうだんしてください。
If you have any problems, please consult me anytime.
一人で悩まずに、誰かに相談することが大切です。
ひとりでなやまずに、だれかにそうだんすることがたいせつです。
Rather than worrying alone, it is important to talk to someone.
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