Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Explain" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "explain", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
説明する
せつめいする (setsumei suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
釈明する
しゃくめいする (shakumeisuru)
C1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "explain" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 説明する and 釈明する.
In Japanese, 説明する (せつめいする (setsumei suru)) is typically associated with "to explain" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used when clarifying or elaborating on something. It's a noun + する verb..
On the other hand, 釈明する (しゃくめいする (shakumeisuru)) maps to "explain, justify" (Syllabus Level: C1) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C1 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "explain" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "説明する"
先生が文法を説明してくれました。
The teacher explained the grammar to me.
Bilingual Context for "釈明する"
私は釈明するに興味があります。
I am interested in explain, justify.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "先生が文法を説明してくれました。" (Meaning: "The teacher explained the grammar to me.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "説明する" fits here because it means "to explain" in the context of: "The teacher explained the grammar to me.". "釈明する" represents "explain, justify".