Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Clear" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "clear", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
明瞭
めいりょう (meiryou)
N2 / 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 明瞭 and 詳らか.
In Japanese, 明瞭 (めいりょう (meiryou)) is typically associated with "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.
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 "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.
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: "彼の説明は非常に ＿＿＿ で分かりやすかった。" (Meaning: "His explanation was very clear and easy to understand.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "明瞭" fits here because it means "clear, distinct, plain, explicit" in the context of: "His explanation was very clear and easy to understand.". "詳らか" represents "clear, detailed, precise, minute".