Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Clear" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "clear", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
明確な
めいかくな (meikaku na)
N3 / 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 明確な and 明瞭.
In Japanese, 明確な (めいかくな (meikaku na)) is typically associated with "clear, precise, definite" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 形容動詞.
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 "明確な"
彼の指示はいつも明確なので、迷うことがない。
His instructions are always clear, so I never get confused.
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: "彼の指示はいつも ＿＿＿ ので、迷うことがない。" (Meaning: "His instructions are always clear, so I never get confused.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "明確な" fits here because it means "clear, precise, definite" in the context of: "His instructions are always clear, so I never get confused.". "明瞭" represents "clear, distinct, plain, explicit".