Translation guide
The English verb 'explain' covers giving reasons, describing how something works, clarifying meaning, and justifying actions. Japanese uses different verbs and patterns depending on what is being explained and to whom.
Can you explain?
Explain it simply.
To tell someone why something happened or why you did something.
The most general verb for 'explain'. Used for giving reasons, describing situations, or providing information. Neutral formality.
Please explain the reason for your lateness.
He didn't explain why he quit.
Literally 'make an excuse'. Used when explaining your own actions, often with a defensive nuance. Can sound like you're justifying yourself.
Can sound defensive or like making excuses if overused.
I made an excuse for being late.
A pattern meaning 'The reason is...' or 'It's because...'. Used to give an explanation after stating a fact.
To give instructions or clarify a process, system, or method.
Again the default verb. Use with 〜のやり方 (how to do) or 〜の仕組み (mechanism).
To make something easier to understand, especially words, concepts, or intentions.
Works for clarifying meaning.
To give a reason for behavior, often when facing criticism or questioning.
Neutral. Can be used in formal situations like explaining to a boss.
説明する is 'explain' in a broad sense. 教える means 'teach' or 'inform'. When you want someone to show you how to do something, 教える is often more natural. For abstract concepts or detailed reasoning, use 説明する.
Please tell me the way to the station. (Not 説明する)
For giving directions or telling someone a fact, 教える or 言う (to say) is often more natural. 説明する implies a more detailed or structured explanation.
He explained the situation to me.
I took the day off yesterday. The reason is, I had a fever.
I'll explain how to use this machine.
Could you explain how the system works?
More formal or detailed explanation, often used for commentary, analysis, or expert explanation. Common in media, textbooks.
The expert explained the economic trends.
Means 'teach' or 'tell'. In casual contexts, it can replace 'explain' when showing someone how to do something.
Explain the rules of this game to me. (lit. Teach me the rules.)
Please explain the meaning of this word.
Means 'to paraphrase' or 'put in other words'. Useful when re-explaining something in simpler terms.
It's difficult, so please explain it in simpler terms.
Means 'interpret'. Used for explaining the meaning of a text, law, or artistic work. Formal.
How should we interpret this clause?
I have to explain why I did that.
Means 'justify oneself' or 'defend one's actions'. Has a nuance of making excuses. Often used in negative contexts.
Can sound defensive.
He tried to justify his actions.
A more emphatic 'explain oneself' or 'clear one's name'. Rare in daily conversation.
He explained himself to prove his innocence.
I can't explain it well.