Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Statement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "statement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
発言
はつげん (hatsugen)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
声明
せいめい (seimei)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "statement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 発言 and 声明.
In Japanese, 発言 (はつげん (hatsugen)) is typically associated with "statement; remark; comment; to make a statement" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to making a statement, comment, or remark, often in a formal setting like a meeting or public forum. Can be used as a noun.
On the other hand, 声明 (せいめい (seimei)) maps to "statement, declaration, proclamation" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal public announcement, often by an organization, government, or public figure, expressing a clear position or intention.. A literal translation of "statement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "発言"
会議で重要な発言があった。
There was an important statement made at the meeting.
Bilingual Context for "声明"
政府は新しい政策に関する声明を発表した。
The government issued a statement regarding the new policy.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会議で重要な ＿＿＿ があった。" (Meaning: "There was an important statement made at the meeting.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "発言" fits here because it means "statement; remark; comment; to make a statement" in the context of: "There was an important statement made at the meeting.". "声明" represents "statement, declaration, proclamation".