Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Clear" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "clear", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
明白
めいはく (meihaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
明瞭
めいりょう (meiryou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "clear" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 明白 and 明瞭.
In Japanese, 明白 (めいはく (meihaku)) is typically associated with "clear, obvious, plain, evident" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 物事や事実がはっきりと明らかで、疑う余地がないこと。誰が見ても疑う余地がないほど明らか。.
On the other hand, 明瞭 (めいりょう (meiryou)) maps to "clear, distinct, plain, explicit" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes something that is easy to understand, hear, or see because it lacks ambiguity or haziness. Often used as 明瞭な. A literal translation of "clear" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "明白"
彼の無罪は明白だった。
His innocence was evident.
Bilingual Context for "明瞭"
彼の説明は非常に明瞭で分かりやすかった。
His explanation was very clear and easy to understand.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の無罪は ＿＿＿ だった。" (Meaning: "His innocence was evident.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "明白" fits here because it means "clear, obvious, plain, evident" in the context of: "His innocence was evident.". "明瞭" represents "clear, distinct, plain, explicit".