明確さ
meikakusa
The English word clarity is translated into Japanese as 明確さ (meikakusa).
明確さ is used to describe the state or measure of being clear.
Meaning: the state or measure of being clear (noun)
Which one should you use?
While 明確さ is a general term for clarity, other formal terms exist for specific nuances: 明瞭さ refers specifically to the quality of being clear, 明快さ describes clarity characterized by promptness and simplicity and 明解さ emphasizes clarity that suggests an easily understandable solution or answer.
How do you pronounce it?
meikakusa
Did you know?
- In Japanese business culture, seeking 明確さ often involves reading the air, or 空気を読む, meaning the most 'clear' communication is often what is left unsaid.
- The character 明 in 明確さ is composed of the radicals for 'sun' and 'moon', combining the two brightest objects in the sky to represent the concept of light and clarity.
- The first character in 明確さ, 明, carries the meaning of 'bright' or 'light', suggesting that to a Japanese speaker, clarity is often perceived as a state of being luminous or well-lit.
Examples in context
- 明確さが一番大事です。Clarity comes first.This sentence is useful for emphasizing that clarity is the most important factor.Tatoeba #80705 by KK_kaku_, translation #323010 by rul
- 文章の明確さが足りません。Bunshou no meikakusa ga tarimasen.The clarity of the text is insufficient.
- 説明の明確さを求めます。Setsumei no meikakusa o motomemasu.I demand clarity in the explanation.
Example conversation
Two students are reviewing a presentation draft.
- 陽葵 Himari大翔、このスライドはどうかな？Hiroto, kono suraido wa dou kana?Hiroto, what do you think of this slide?
- 大翔 Hiroto内容が良いけれど、明確さが足りないね。Naiyou ga ii keredo, meikakusa ga tarinai ne.The content is good, but it lacks clarity.
- 陽葵 Himariどこを直せばいいと思う？Doko o naoseba ii to omou?Where do you think I should fix it?
- 大翔 Hiroto結論を先に書くといいよ。Ketsuron o saki ni kaku to ii yo.It would be good to write the conclusion first.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
