Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Clear" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "clear", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
はっきりした
はっきりした (hakkirishita)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
詳らか
つまびらか (tsumabiraka)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "clear" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between はっきりした and 詳らか.
In Japanese, はっきりした (はっきりした (hakkirishita)) is typically associated with "clear, distinct, definite" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used to describe something that is easy to understand, well-defined, or stated clearly. Can also be used for feelings or thoughts..
On the other hand, 詳らか (つまびらか (tsumabiraka)) maps to "clear, detailed, precise, minute" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Used to describe something that is clear, explicit, and detailed. Often used with verbs like「にする」. A literal translation of "clear" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "はっきりした"
彼の説明はとてもはっきりしていたので、よく理解できました。
His explanation was very clear, so I understood it well.
Bilingual Context for "詳らか"
彼は事件の経緯を詳らかに語った。
He explained the sequence of events in detail.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の説明はとてもはっきりしていたので、よく理解できました。" (Meaning: "His explanation was very clear, so I understood it well.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "はっきりした" fits here because it means "clear, distinct, definite" in the context of: "His explanation was very clear, so I understood it well.". "詳らか" represents "clear, detailed, precise, minute".