確認 and 相談: checking facts and discussing a problem
Learn how to distinguish checking information from discussing a decision or solution.
Checking whether something is correct
確認 is read かくにん and means checking a fact, detail, or condition. 「予約の日時を確認しました」 means that the speaker checked the date and time of the reservation.
「担当者に確認します」 says that the speaker will check with the person in charge. Although it involves asking someone, the focus is on accurate information rather than advice.
Discussing a decision together
相談 is read そうだん and refers to seeking advice or discussing a concern or plan. 「進路について先生に相談しました」 means that the speaker consulted their teacher about their future path.
「相談してから決めます」 means that the speaker will decide after discussing it. The decision is not complete, so it should not be translated as a past decision.
Making different requests to the same person
「日程を確認したいです」 requests a check of the schedule's details. 「日程について相談したいです」 requests a discussion about the schedule, for example to adjust it.
A consultation can include checking facts. Rather than treating the activities as mutually exclusive, consider whether the sentence emphasizes verifying information or discussing a solution.
Which word fits checking whether the already arranged meeting time is ten: 確認 or 相談?
Show the answer and why
確認 fits. 「集合時間が十時で合っているか確認したいです」 asks to verify the arranged time, not to discuss changing it.