Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Detailed" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "detailed", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
詳しい
くわしい (kuwashii)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
綿密な
めんみつな (menmitsuna)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "detailed" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 詳しい and 綿密な.
In Japanese, 詳しい (くわしい (kuwashii)) is typically associated with "detailed; knowing well; knowledgeable" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Describes something with many details, or someone who knows a subject well..
On the other hand, 綿密な (めんみつな (menmitsuna)) maps to "detailed, elaborate, careful, meticulous" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes plans, investigations, or preparations that are done very thoroughly with attention to every small detail.. A literal translation of "detailed" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "詳しい"
そのことについて、もっと詳しい情報が欲しいです。
I want more detailed information about that.
Bilingual Context for "綿密な"
彼は綿密な計画を立てて旅行に行った。
He made meticulous plans and went on a trip.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "そのことについて、もっと ＿＿＿ 情報が欲しいです。" (Meaning: "I want more detailed information about that.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "詳しい" fits here because it means "detailed; knowing well; knowledgeable" in the context of: "I want more detailed information about that.". "綿密な" represents "detailed, elaborate, careful, meticulous".