説明 — meaning in English: Description

setsumei · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

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フィクション

fikushon

説明

setsumei

連邦

renpō

カーテン

kāten

成長

seichō

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers commonly use the word 説明 (setsumei) in academic settings, such as during lectures or presentations, where detailed explanations are required. It is also frequently heard in business environments, for example, when one has to clarify project details or provide instructions to team members.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 説明 is 解説 (kaisetsu), which also means 'explanation' but typically implies a more in-depth analysis or commentary. You might choose 説明 when you want to convey straightforward information, while 解説 would be preferred for more complex topics requiring thorough elucidation.

Culture

The word 説明 (setsumei) is derived from the combination of 説 (setsu), meaning 'explain,' and 明 (mei), meaning 'bright' or 'clear.' This reflects the intent behind a description: to make something clear and understandable. In Japanese culture, providing clear explanations is often seen as a sign of respect for the listener's understanding.

FAQ

Q.What does the word 説明 mean?

The word 説明 (setsumei) translates to 'description' or 'explanation' in English, highlighting the act of clarifying or detailing a subject.

Q.How do you use 説明 in a sentence?

You can use 説明 in sentences like 'この問題について説明してください' (Kono mondai ni tsuite setsumei shite kudasai), which means 'Please explain this problem.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 説明?

A common mistake is using 説明 in overly formal contexts where casual language would suffice. Always consider the setting and audience to choose the appropriate level of formality.

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