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説明
setsumei
What does "説明" mean in English?
explanationこの使い方を説明してください。
Please explain how to use this.
How to use "説明" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
formal
The act of making something clear or understandable by describing its features, purpose, or process.
先生が数学の問題の解き方を説明しました。
The teacher explained how to solve the math problem.
製品の説明書を読んでください。
Please read the product explanation manual.
Used in both spoken and written contexts, often followed by を (wo) when used as a noun.
formal
A statement or account that makes something clear; a description or account of facts.
この文章の説明が足りません。
The explanation of this text is insufficient.
Can also refer to the content of an explanation itself.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Verb Pairing
説明 is often used with the verb する (to do) as 説明する (to explain). For example: 「彼がそのルールを説明した」 means 'He explained the rules.'
Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
説明 is formal and appropriate for professional, academic, or instructional contexts. For casual explanations among friends, consider using 話す (hanasu) or 教える (oshieru).
Word Origin
From Middle Chinese 說明 (śwat̚ mjeng), meaning 'to explain' + 'bright/clear'. The compound entered Japanese as a formal term for explanation or elucidation.
Usage Notes
説明 is a neutral term used in various contexts from education to product instructions. It is often paired with を (wo) when used as a noun in sentences. As a suru-verb (説明する), it means 'to explain'.
Word Breakdown
説
to explain / to persuade
root明
bright / clear
root和英辞典