応接間(おうせつま)

応接間(おうせつま) is a formal room for receiving and entertaining guests, distinct from everyday living spaces.

Forms

応接(おうせつ) (reception, receiving guests) + 間(ま) (room)

Usage

More common in older, larger, or Western-style (洋風(ようふう)) Japanese homes. Modern apartments rarely have a dedicated 応接間(おうせつま). In offices, the equivalent room is called an 応接室(おうせつしつ).

Common collocations

• 応接間(おうせつま)に通(とお)す: to show someone to the reception room
• 応接(おうせつ)セット: reception room furniture set (sofa + chairs + table)
• 応接室(おうせつしつ): reception room (in offices/businesses)

Related room vocabulary

• 居間(いま): living room (traditional Japanese term)
• リビング: living room (modern, casual)
• 客間(きゃくま): guest room (Japanese-style, with tatami)
• 和室(わしつ): Japanese-style room
• 洋間(ようま): Western-style room