Translation guide
The English phrase "be evident" means that something is clearly seen, understood, or obvious. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, verbs, and set phrases depending on whether the evidence is visual, logical, or based on circumstances.
To say that something is obvious from looking at it or from the situation.
An adjective meaning 'clear' or 'obvious'. Used when something is evident based on facts or observation.
彼が嘘をついているのは明らかだ。
It is evident that he is lying.
A more formal adjective meaning 'obvious' or 'manifest'. Often used in written or official contexts.
彼の無実は明白だ。
His innocence is evident.
A set phrase meaning 'obvious at a glance'. Used when something is immediately evident upon seeing it.
その違いは一目瞭然だ。
The difference is evident at a glance.
To say that something is clear from reasoning or common sense.
Literally 'it goes without saying'. Used when something is so evident that it doesn't need to be stated.
健康が大切なのは言うまでもない。
It is evident that health is important.
Means 'natural' or 'obvious' in the sense of being expected or a matter of course.
彼が怒るのは当然だ。
It is evident that he would get angry.
To say that something becomes evident as a situation develops.
A pattern meaning 'it becomes clear that...'. Used when evidence emerges.
調査の結果、問題があることが明らかになった。
As a result of the investigation, it became evident that there was a problem.
Means 'it turns out that...' or 'it is found that...'. Often used in news or reports.
事故の原因が判明した。
The cause of the accident became evident.
明らか (akiraka) is the most common and versatile word for 'evident'. 明白 (meihaku) is stronger and more formal, often used in legal or official contexts. For everyday speech, 明らか is preferred.
The English phrase 'be evident' does not have a single direct verb equivalent in Japanese. Instead, use adjectives like 明らかだ or set phrases like 言うまでもない. A literal translation like 証拠される is not natural.