1.
meeting, first introduction, get-together
A meeting where people come together to see each other's faces and get acquainted, especially for the first time. Often used for formal or semi-formal occasions like project kickoffs, family introductions, or pre-wedding meetings.
両家の顔合わせをした。
We had a meeting between the two families.
プロジェクトの顔合わせが来週ある。
There's a project kickoff meeting next week.
結婚前に両親の顔合わせの食事会を開いた。
Before the wedding, we held a dinner for the parents to meet each other.
WORD FORMATION:
顔 (face) + 合わせ (putting together)
Literally "putting faces together" — meeting face to face.
CULTURAL CONTEXT:
両家の顔合わせ (meeting of both families) is an important step before a Japanese wedding. The families of the bride and groom meet formally, often over a meal at a restaurant. It may replace or precede the more traditional 結納 (formal engagement ceremony).
In business, 顔合わせ refers to an initial meeting where team members or stakeholders meet for the first time.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 両家の顔合わせ: meeting of both families
- 顔合わせの食事会: introductory dinner
- 顔合わせを済ませる: to complete the initial meeting