Translation and Meaning of: 明確 - meikaku

Etymology and Origin

The word 「明確」 (meikaku) is composed of two kanji that together carry the meaning of clarity and precision. The first kanji, 「明」 (mei), brings the sense of "bright" or "clear". This kanji is often associated with light and illumination, symbolizing something that is easily visible or understandable. The second kanji, 「確」 (kaku), means "certainty" or "definitive", indicating something that is solid and undoubted. The combination of the two kanji reinforces the idea of something that is presented brilliantly and with infallible precision.

Definition and Usage

"明確" is used in the Japanese language to describe a statement, opinion, or instruction that is presented clearly and without ambiguity. This word can be used in various contexts, from everyday situations to academic and professional environments. For example, it is required that an explanation be "明確" in a business report or during academic presentations, ensuring that the information is accurate and understood by all.

The precision of this expression is not limited only to spoken or written language, but also applies to concepts, ideas, and plans. In the field of project management, for example, a 「明確」 plan is one that is structured clearly and leaves no room for errors or misunderstandings. This versatile use highlights the importance of communicating clearly to avoid confusion and misunderstandings.

Variations and Contexts of Use

• In debates or discussions, being able to present arguments 「明確」 is crucial to establish a solid position.
• In education, instructors often seek to provide 「明確」 explanations to facilitate student learning.
• In business communications, clarity, represented by 「明確」, is vital to ensure that all parties involved understand their roles and responsibilities.

This term, due to its relevance in various fields, is a crucial piece in the Japanese vocabulary, especially in contexts that require understanding and precise communication.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 明瞭 (Meiryou) - Clarity, sharpness (generally related to something easily understood)
• 明白 (Meihaku) - Clarity, evidence (something that is clearly understood or that leaves no doubts)
• 鮮明 (Senmei) - Vividness, clarity (often used to describe colors or images that are bright and clear)
• 明快 (Meikai) - Clarity and simplicity (usually used to describe arguments or explanations that are straightforward and easy to understand)
• 明晰 (Meiseki) - Clarity or mental sharpness (referring to clear and precise understanding of ideas)

明確

Romaji: meikaku
Kana: めいかく
Type: Adjective
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: Clarify; define.

Meaning in English: clear up;clarify;define

Definition: Something that is clear and clearly understandable.

Example Sentences - (明確) meikaku

See below some example sentences:

この計画には明確な目標が必要です。

Kono keikaku ni wa meikaku na mokuhyō ga hitsuyō desu

This plan needs clear goals.

This plan requires a clear goal.

• この計画 - This plan
• には - require
• 明確な - Of course
• 目標 - objective
• が - is
• 必要です - necessary

前提を明確にすることが重要です。

Zentei wo meikaku ni suru koto ga juuyou desu

It is important to leave the premises clear.

It is important to clarify the premise.

• 前提 (zentai) - means "premise" or "assumption".
• を (wo) - object particle.
• 明確 (meikaku) - It means "clear" or "precise".
• にする (ni suru) - expression that means "to become".
• こと (koto) - abstract noun that indicates an action or event.
• が (ga) - Subject particle.
• 重要 (juuyou) - It means "important" or "crucial."
• です (desu) - polite way to be.

彼の意思は明確ではない。

Kare no ishi wa meikaku de wa nai

Your intention is unclear.

Your intention is not clear.

• 彼の意思 - "Your intention"
• は - Topic particle
• 明確 - "Clara"
• ではない - "Is not"

私の意図は明確です。

Watashi no ito wa meikaku desu

My intention is clear.

• 私 - Personal pronoun "I" in Japanese.
• の - Possessive particle in Japanese, equivalent to "de" in Portuguese.
• 意図 - 名詞は日本語で「意図」または「目的」を意味します。
• は - Topic particle in Japanese, which indicates the subject of the sentence.
• 明確 - 明らかな (akirakana)
• です - Verb "to be" in Japanese, used to affirm or confirm something.