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
明瞭な
めいりょうな (meiryōna)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "clear" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 明白 and 明瞭な.
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, 明瞭な (めいりょうな (meiryōna)) maps to "clear, distinct, obvious" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes speech, writing, or thoughts that are easy to understand, or a situation that is unambiguous and definite.. 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 "明瞭な"
彼の説明は常に明瞭でわかりやすい。
His explanation is always 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.". "明瞭な" represents "clear, distinct, obvious".