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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Details" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "details", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

経緯

けいい (keii)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

委細

いさい (isai)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "details" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 経緯 and 委細. In Japanese, 経緯 (けいい (keii)) is typically associated with "details, circumstances, background, process" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Explains the sequence of events and circumstances that led to a particular situation or outcome.. On the other hand, 委細 (いさい (isai)) maps to "details, particulars, all the circumstances" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents A formal term, often used when asking for or giving 'all the details.' Frequently paired with 承知. A literal translation of "details" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "経緯"
事件の経緯を詳しく説明してください。
Please explain the details of the incident thoroughly.
Bilingual Context for "委細"
事故の委細については、現在調査中ですので、後ほどご報告いたします。
Regarding the details of the accident, we are currently investigating and will report them later.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "事件の ___ を詳しく説明してください。" (Meaning: "Please explain the details of the incident thoroughly.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "経緯" fits here because it means "details, circumstances, background, process" in the context of: "Please explain the details of the incident thoroughly.". "委細" represents "details, particulars, all the circumstances".