Translation guide
The English word 'detail' can refer to a small individual part of something, the fine points or specifics of a plan or description, or the act of describing something thoroughly. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a specific small part of a larger whole, such as a detail in a painting, story, or design.
Refers to the fine points or small parts of something, often used in formal or descriptive contexts.
この絵の細部までよく描かれている。
Every detail of this painting is well drawn.
Often used for detailed information or specifics, like the details of a plan or report.
計画の詳細を教えてください。
Please tell me the details of the plan.
Loanword from English, used in design, fashion, or artistic contexts. Sounds stylish but less common in everyday speech.
このドレスのディテールが素敵ですね。
The details of this dress are lovely.
Referring to the full set of information or the fine points of a matter, such as the details of an event or instructions.
The most common word for 'details' as in specific information. Used in both formal and informal settings.
詳細は後でメールで送ります。
I'll send you the details later by email.
事件の詳細はまだ明らかになっていない。
The details of the incident are not yet clear.
Literally 'small things', used in casual conversation to refer to minor details or specifics.
細かいことは気にしないで。
Don't worry about the details.
Formal term for full details or particulars, often used in business or official contexts.
委細は面談の際にお話しします。
I will give you the full details at the interview.
Referring to the action of explaining or listing something in detail.
The most natural way to say 'explain in detail'. Used in both speech and writing.
その点について詳しく説明してください。
Please explain that point in detail.
More formal, often used in written reports or presentations.
報告書ではその問題を詳細に述べた。
The report described the problem in detail.
Means to recount something in minute detail, often used for storytelling.
彼は旅の体験を事細かに話した。
He recounted his travel experiences in great detail.
詳細 (shousai) refers to detailed information or specifics, while 細部 (saibu) refers to the fine parts or components of a physical object or work. Use 詳細 for plans, reports, and instructions; use 細部 for art, design, and physical descriptions.
The loanword ディテール is understood but can sound pretentious if used in everyday conversation. Stick to 細部 or 詳細 unless you're in a design or fashion context.