1.
first meeting; first encounter
The first time meeting someone face to face.
Forms
初 (first) + 対面 (meeting face to face) → first face-to-face meeting
Common expressions
- 初対面の人 - a person you're meeting for the first time
- 初対面なのに - even though it's the first meeting
- 初対面では - at a first meeting
Cultural note
In Japanese culture, 初対面 situations typically call for more formal language and behavior. Using polite speech (敬語) and maintaining appropriate distance are expected.