Translation guide
How to express 'description' in Japanese, from explaining what something is like to official written descriptions.
To describe the characteristics, appearance, or nature of something in conversation or informal writing.
A natural way to say 'describe what it's like'. Literally 'explain what kind of feeling it is'. Used in everyday speech.
その場所がどんな感じか説明して。
Describe what that place is like.
Means 'to depict' or 'portray'. Often used for vivid descriptions in literature or detailed accounts.
彼はその風景を美しく描写した。
He beautifully described the scenery.
General word for 'explain'. Can be used for descriptions, but is broader. Often used when giving an account or instructions.
その機械の使い方を説明してください。
Please describe how to use this machine.
A description as a noun, such as a report, a depiction, or a portrayal.
The most common noun for 'description' in the sense of an explanation or account. Used in everyday contexts.
この製品の説明を読んでください。
Please read the description of this product.
A depiction or portrayal, often artistic or literary. Emphasizes vivid detail.
A formal or technical description, often used in academic or official documents.
To describe someone's appearance, personality, or characteristics.
Means 'to describe someone's character/personality'. Natural for talking about what a person is like.
彼女の人柄を簡単に説明して。
Briefly describe her personality.
Specifically for describing someone's physical appearance.
犯人の外見を説明できますか？
Can you describe the suspect's appearance?
A formal description of duties, roles, or specifications.
Standard term for 'job description' in HR contexts.
新しい職務記述書を作成しました。
We created a new job description.
Means 'overview' or 'summary'. Often used for brief descriptions of projects or roles.
プロジェクトの概要を説明します。
I will give a description of the project.
説明 (setsumei) is the general word for explanation or description. 描写 (byousha) emphasizes vivid depiction, often in art or literature. 記述 (kijutsu) is formal and used for written descriptions in technical or official contexts.
English 'description' covers many nuances. In Japanese, the appropriate word depends heavily on context. Using 説明 for a literary depiction may sound flat; using 描写 for a product manual may sound overly artistic.
The novel contains beautiful descriptions of nature.
This report requires a detailed description.