根回し

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 根回し is read as ねまわし and is a noun for advance groundwork with stakeholders or for preparing a tree's roots before transplanting.
• Basic usage: Prior coordination appears in 関係者への根回し, while preparing a tree appears in 木の根回しを行う.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Figurative and horticultural senses
  • In an organization it means aligning views before a proposal, while in gardening it means preparing a tree's roots before relocation.
• Difference from 相談
  • 相談 broadly means discussing a matter together, while figurative 根回し focuses on gaining understanding and cooperation before a formal proposal.