Translation guide
The act or process of making something simpler or easier to understand. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various verbs, nouns, and phrases depending on whether you are simplifying a system, an explanation, or a problem.
To simplify a process, system, or thing to make it more straightforward.
Noun meaning simplification, often used for processes, procedures, or systems. Can be used with する to mean 'to simplify'.
手続きの簡略化が求められている。
Simplification of the procedures is required.
システムを簡略化する必要がある。
We need to simplify the system.
Noun meaning simplification, often with a nuance of making something more plain or less intricate. Can imply oversimplification in some contexts.
問題を単純化しすぎないでください。
Don't oversimplify the problem.
Noun meaning simplification, often used for making something more austere or streamlined, like design or lifestyle.
生活の簡素化を目指している。
I'm aiming for a simplification of my lifestyle.
To simplify a concept or explanation so that it is more accessible.
A common phrase meaning 'to explain in an easy-to-understand way'. This is the most natural way to express simplifying an explanation.
専門用語を使わずに、わかりやすく説明してください。
Please explain it in simple terms without using technical jargon.
Literally 'to chew and break down an explanation', meaning to explain in very simple, digestible terms. Casual and vivid.
子どもにもわかるように噛み砕いて説明した。
I explained it in simple terms so that even a child could understand.
Noun meaning simplification of language or content to make it easier. Somewhat formal and less common in daily speech.
法律文書の平易化が進められている。
Simplification of legal documents is being promoted.
To simplify a mathematical expression or fraction to its simplest form.
Noun/verb meaning reduction of a fraction. Use 約分する for 'to reduce a fraction'.
この分数を約分してください。
Please simplify this fraction.
General term for simplification, also used in math contexts. Less specific than 約分.
式を簡単化する。
Simplify the expression.
簡略化 (かんりゃくか) is the most general and neutral for simplifying processes or systems. 単純化 (たんじゅんか) often implies stripping away complexity, sometimes with a negative nuance of oversimplification. 簡素化 (かんそか) is used for making things simpler in a positive, streamlined way, often for lifestyle or design.
The English word 'simplification' is often best expressed with a verb phrase like わかりやすく説明する rather than a direct noun. Using 簡略化 in every context can sound unnatural.