1.
point of contact, connection, common ground
A point where two things meet or connect, often used figuratively for a shared interest, relationship, or link between people, groups, or ideas.
二人には接点がない。
The two have no connection.
容疑者と被害者の接点を調べている。
They are investigating the connection between the suspect and the victim.
異なる分野の研究者が接点を見つけることで新しい発見が生まれる。
When researchers from different fields find common ground, new discoveries are born.
2.
contact point, electrical contact
A physical point where two things touch, especially an electrical contact point in a circuit or device.
スイッチの接点が劣化している。
The contact point of the switch has deteriorated.
接点が汚れていて電気が通らない。
The contacts are dirty and electricity isn't flowing.
接点不良が原因で機械が動かなくなった。
The machine stopped working due to a faulty contact.
USAGE:
Sense 1 (figurative connection) is extremely common in news and investigations. The phrase 接点がない (there is no connection) is a set expression. Sense 2 (electrical/physical contact) is used in technical contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 接点がある/ない: to have / not have a connection
- 接点を見つける: to find a connection
- 接点を探る: to look for a connection
- 接点不良: faulty contact (electrical)