Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Explanation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "explanation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
解説
かいせつ (kaisetsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
釈明
しゃくめい (shakumei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "explanation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 解説 and 釈明.
In Japanese, 解説 (かいせつ (kaisetsu)) is typically associated with "explanation; commentary; exposition" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to providing an explanation, commentary, or exposition on a complex topic, news, or question. Can be used with する as a verb.
On the other hand, 釈明 (しゃくめい (shakumei)) maps to "explanation; clarification; excusing oneself; apology/vindication" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to explaining, clarifying, or excusing one's actions, particularly when a public figure or worker is suspected of wrongdoing or causes a problem. Often used as 釈明会見. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Explanation! Give me a clear explanation about why you were smiling at that girl from the accounting department! ...っ, I am NOT jealous! I just care about organizational order!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『釈明しなさい！経理の女の子に向かって、何でそんなに嬉しそうにデレデレ微笑みかけてたのよ！釈明を求めるわ！…し、しし、嫉妬じゃないわよ、社内秩序の維持よ！』. A literal translation of "explanation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "解説"
ニュースキャスターが、現在の経済状況について分かりやすく_______しました。
The newscaster explained the current economic situation in an easy-to-understand way.
Bilingual Context for "釈明"
度重なる失言に対し、その議員は釈明会見を開きましたが、かえって批判を_______結果となりました。
Toward his repeated gaffes, the lawmaker held a press conference to explain, but it rather resulted in drawing criticism.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "ニュースキャスターが、現在の経済状況について分かりやすく_______しました。" (Meaning: "The newscaster explained the current economic situation in an easy-to-understand way.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "解説" fits here because it means "explanation; commentary; exposition" in the context of: "The newscaster explained the current economic situation in an easy-to-understand way.". "釈明" represents "explanation; clarification; excusing oneself; apology/vindication".