用件(ようけん)

ようけん
noun
business; matter to discuss
communication
See also: 要件(ようけん) (requirement, condition)
1. business; matter to discuss; errand; purpose of contact
The specific matter or purpose one has when contacting or visiting someone. Often used when asking someone what they want or stating one's reason for calling.
ご用件(ようけん)は何(なん)でしょうか。
How may I help you? / What is the matter?
I just stated my business and hung up the phone.
急(いそ)ぎの用件(ようけん)があるので、手短(てみじか)にお願(ねが)いします。
I have urgent business, so please keep it brief.

Usage

用件(ようけん) refers to the specific matter or purpose someone has when making contact. It is commonly used in business phone calls, reception desks, and email communication. ご用件(ようけん) is the polite form.

Common collocations

  • ご用件(ようけん)は? (What is your business?)
  • 用件(ようけん)を伝(つた)える (to convey one's business)
  • 用件(ようけん)を済(す)ませる (to take care of one's business)
  • 急(いそ)ぎの用件(ようけん) (urgent matter)

Similar words

要件(ようけん) (same pronunciation) means "requirement" or "condition" — a common source of confusion. 用事(ようじ) is a more casual word for "errand" or "something to do."

Related Words