Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'narration' depends on context: storytelling, voice-over, or describing events. The most common word is ナレーション (narration in media), while 語り is used for traditional storytelling or personal accounts.
The spoken commentary in films, TV, videos, or presentations.
The standard loanword for 'narration' in media contexts. Used for voice-overs, documentaries, and audio guides.
このビデオのナレーションを担当しました。
I did the narration for this video.
Can refer to narration in a more literary or traditional sense, but also used for voice-over in artistic contexts. Less common than ナレーション for modern media.
映画の語りが印象的だった。
The narration in the movie was impressive.
The act of telling a story or describing events, often in a literary or personal context.
Refers to the act of narrating a story, often with a personal or traditional touch. Used in contexts like folk tales, personal anecdotes, or literary narration.
彼の語りはいつも面白い。
His narration is always interesting.
A formal, literary term for narration or description. Used in academic or critical contexts, not in everyday speech.
The method or style of telling a story, such as first-person or third-person narration.
Refers to the style or manner of narration, such as tone or perspective. Common in literary discussions.
この作家の語り口は独特だ。
This author's narration style is unique.
Specifically 'first-person narration'. Used when discussing narrative perspective.
この物語は一人称の語りで進む。
This story progresses with first-person narration.
ナレーション is specifically for voice-over in media like TV, film, or presentations. 語り is broader, covering traditional storytelling, personal accounts, and sometimes literary narration. For modern media, default to ナレーション.
ドキュメンタリーのナレーション
documentary narration
昔話の語り
narration of a folk tale
The narration in this novel is detailed.