擦(す)り合(あ)わせ

A key concept in Japanese business culture referring to the process of aligning opinions, schedules, or plans among multiple parties before a final decision is made.

Etymology

Literally "rubbing together" — from 擦(す)り合(あ)わせる (to rub/grind surfaces together to fit). The original meaning refers to physical fitting of parts; the business meaning is metaphorical.

Common patterns

• 擦(す)り合(あ)わせを行(おこな)う: to conduct coordination
• 擦(す)り合(あ)わせをする: to coordinate (less formal)
• 関係者(かんけいしゃ)との擦(す)り合(あ)わせ: coordination with stakeholders
• スケジュールの擦(す)り合(あ)わせ: schedule alignment

Forms

擦(す)り合(あ)わせる (to coordinate, to fine-tune)

Frequent in workplace and organizational settings. Reflects the Japanese emphasis on consensus-building (根回(ねまわ)し) before formal meetings.