Translation guide
The English word "evident" means clearly seen or understood; obvious. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through adjectives, verbs, and set phrases that convey obviousness, clarity, or self-evidence. The most common and natural ways to say something is evident depend on context: describing a fact as clear, stating that something is obvious from evidence, or using expressions like "it goes without saying."
To state that something is clearly true or easily seen, without needing further proof.
The most direct and common adjective meaning 'clear,' 'obvious,' or 'evident.' Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
彼が嘘をついているのは明らかだ。
It's evident that he is lying.
The cause of the problem is not evident.
Stronger than 明らか, meaning 'manifestly evident' or 'patently obvious.' Often used in formal or written contexts.
彼の無実は明白だ。
His innocence is evident.
Literally 'clear at a glance.' Used when something is immediately evident upon seeing it.
彼女が怒っているのは一目瞭然だった。
It was evident at a glance that she was angry.
Means 'clear' or 'distinct,' often used for sounds, images, or logical clarity. Less common for general 'evident.'
彼の説明は明瞭で、誰もが理解できた。
His explanation was clear, and everyone could understand.
To express that something is so obvious it doesn't need to be stated, or is evident from the situation.
Literally 'it goes without saying.' A very common phrase meaning something is self-evident or needless to say.
安全が最優先であることは言うまでもない。
It is evident that safety is the top priority.
Means 'obvious,' 'natural,' or 'a matter of course.' Very common in casual speech.
彼が成功するのは当たり前だ。
It's evident that he will succeed.
Means 'self-evident' or 'axiomatic.' Used in academic or philosophical contexts.
この定理は自明である。
This theorem is self-evident.
To indicate that something is evident based on observable facts, traces, or indications.
The verb form meaning 'to become evident' or 'to come to light.' Often used when new information reveals the truth.
調査の結果、彼の関与が明らかになった。
As a result of the investigation, his involvement became evident.
Means 'can be seen' or 'is evident from observing.' Used when something is apparent from someone's expression or behavior.
彼の表情から不安が見て取れた。
Anxiety was evident in his expression.
Means 'can be glimpsed' or 'is evident (from subtle signs).' Often used in literary or analytical writing.
彼の言葉からは強い意志が窺える。
A strong will is evident from his words.
明らか is the most general and neutral for 'evident.' 明白 is stronger and more formal, often used in legal or official contexts. 当たり前 implies something is natural or expected, and can sound dismissive if used inappropriately.
English often uses 'evident' in phrases like 'It is evident that...' In Japanese, it's more natural to use an adjective like 明らかだ or a phrase like 言うまでもない rather than trying to translate 'evident' directly as a single word in all contexts.
彼女が疲れているのは明らかだった。
It was evident that she was tired.
彼の才能は幼い頃から明らかだった。
His talent became evident at an early age.