Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Clear" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "clear", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
明瞭な
めいりょうな (meiryōna)
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 明瞭な and 詳らか.
In Japanese, 明瞭な (めいりょうな (meiryōna)) is typically associated with "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..
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.
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: "彼の説明は常に明瞭でわかりやすい。" (Meaning: "His explanation is always clear and easy to understand.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "明瞭な" fits here because it means "clear, distinct, obvious" in the context of: "His explanation is always clear and easy to understand.". "詳らか" represents "clear, detailed, precise, minute".