Translation guide
The central idea or main point of something said or written. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with nouns like 要点 or 趣旨, or with phrases that mean 'in short' or 'the point is'.
要点は何ですか？
What's the gist?
だいたいわかりました。
I got the gist.
The core idea or most important part of a statement, text, or argument.
The most common and neutral word for 'gist' or 'main point'. Used in both speech and writing.
話の要点をまとめてください。
Please summarize the gist of the talk.
彼の説明の要点がわからなかった。
I didn't get the gist of his explanation.
Refers to the main point or purpose, often used in formal contexts like meetings or official statements.
会議の趣旨を説明します。
I will explain the gist of the meeting.
Similar to 趣旨, but more about the main meaning or intent of a text or statement. Often interchangeable.
この文章の主旨を理解するのは難しい。
It's hard to understand the gist of this text.
Literally 'bones', meaning the essential framework or outline. Used in formal or written contexts.
計画の骨子を説明します。
I'll explain the gist of the plan.
Phrases used to introduce a summary or the main takeaway.
Means 'in short' or 'the point is'. Very common in conversation.
要するに、彼は反対だということだ。
The gist is that he's against it.
Means 'that is to say' or 'in other words'. Used to rephrase the gist.
When you grasp the overall meaning without details.
Means 'general meaning' or 'gist', often used for texts or speeches.
この記事の大意をつかんでください。
Please get the gist of this article.
Literally 'rough content', a natural way to say 'the gist' in casual speech.
だいたいの内容はわかった。
I got the gist.
Means 'outline' or 'gist', slightly literary.
要点 is the most general and common. 趣旨 is often used for the purpose or intent behind an action or statement, while 主旨 is more about the main meaning of a text. In many cases they overlap, but 要点 is the safest choice.
要点を教えてください。
Tell me the gist.
会議の趣旨を確認する。
Confirm the gist/purpose of the meeting.
彼の言ったことの要点がつかめなかった。
I didn't catch the gist of what he said.
話の要点は、正直は報われるということだ。
The gist of the story is that honesty pays off.
つまり、もっとお金が必要なんだ。
The gist is, we need more money.
Literally 'the quick story is', meaning 'the long and short of it'. Casual.
早い話が、失敗したってことだ。
The gist is, we failed.
事件のあらましを話してください。
Please tell me the gist of the incident.