1.
groundwork; behind-the-scenes preparation; consensus-building
The practice of informally consulting with stakeholders before a formal meeting or decision to build support and avoid opposition.
会議の前に根回しをした。
I did the groundwork before the meeting.
根回しなしで提案したら反対された。
I proposed it without preparation and faced opposition.
関係者への根回しに時間がかかった。
It took time to lay the groundwork with the stakeholders.
ETYMOLOGY:
Originally a gardening term meaning to prepare the roots of a tree before transplanting (根 = root, 回し = going around). Now used for business and political preparation.
CULTURAL NOTE:
A key concept in Japanese business culture. Decisions are often made informally through 根回し before being formally approved in meetings, which helps maintain 和 (harmony) and avoid public disagreements.
USAGE:
Common in:
- Business negotiations
- Political decisions
- Organizational changes
COLLOCATIONS:
- 根回しをする - to do groundwork
- 根回しが必要 - groundwork is necessary
- 事前の根回し - prior preparation