Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Explanation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "explanation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
説明
せつめい (setsumei)
N4 / 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 説明 and 釈明.
In Japanese, 説明 (せつめい (setsumei)) is typically associated with "explanation, description" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents The act of clarifying or describing something. Often used with する.
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 "説明"
先生が新しい文法を説明しました。
The teacher explained the new grammar.
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: "先生が新しい文法を ＿＿＿ しました。" (Meaning: "The teacher explained the new grammar.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "説明" fits here because it means "explanation, description" in the context of: "The teacher explained the new grammar.". "釈明" represents "explanation; clarification; excusing oneself; apology/vindication".