Translation guide
The English word "mention" can be expressed in Japanese through various verbs and phrases depending on whether you are bringing up a topic, referring to someone or something, or giving a brief statement. The most common and versatile equivalent is 言う (iu), but more specific words like 述べる (noberu) or 触れる (fureru) are used in formal or nuanced contexts.
Expressing that someone said something about a topic, often casually or in passing.
The most general verb for 'to say'. When used with a topic particle or in context, it can mean 'to mention'. Very common in everyday speech.
彼はそのことを言っていた。
He mentioned that.
さっき言ったように、明日は休みです。
As I mentioned earlier, tomorrow is a holiday.
Literally 'to bring out in conversation'. Used when someone introduces a topic or mentions something in a discussion.
会議でその問題を話に出した。
I mentioned the issue at the meeting.
Means 'to touch on' a topic. Implies a brief or light mention, often in formal or written contexts.
社長はその問題に軽く触れた。
The president briefly mentioned the issue.
Literally 'to put in one's mouth'. Means to mention or bring up something, often with a nuance of hesitation or significance.
彼はその名前を口にしなかった。
He didn't mention that name.
Indicating that a specific person or thing was named or alluded to.
Means 'to list' or 'to cite'. Commonly used when mentioning examples, names, or items in a list.
例として東京を挙げた。
He mentioned Tokyo as an example.
彼はいくつかの問題点を挙げた。
He mentioned several problems.
Literally 'to bring out a name'. Used when someone mentions a person's name, often in a social or professional context.
彼女は会話の中で彼の名前を出した。
She mentioned his name during the conversation.
A formal term meaning 'to refer to' or 'to make mention of'. Common in academic or official contexts.
報告書はその問題に言及している。
The report mentions the issue.
Expressing that something was said or written in a more official, detailed, or structured manner.
A formal verb meaning 'to state' or 'to express'. Often used in speeches, reports, or formal writing when mentioning facts or opinions.
先ほど述べたように、計画は変更されました。
As I mentioned earlier, the plan has been changed.
彼は意見を述べた。
He mentioned his opinion.
Means 'to record' or 'to mention in writing'. Used for official documents, forms, or records.
契約書にその条件が記載されている。
The condition is mentioned in the contract.
Adding a brief comment or reference without going into detail.
Means 'to mention incidentally' or 'by the way'. Used when adding a casual, often less important, comment.
ついでに言うと、明日は雨らしいよ。
By the way, I should mention that it looks like rain tomorrow.
Means 'to add' or 'to mention additionally'. Used when supplementing information.
一言付け加えさせてください。
Let me mention one more thing.
In many casual contexts, Japanese speakers simply use 言う (iu) or 話す (hanasu) without a specific word for 'mention'. Overusing formal equivalents like 言及する can sound stiff. Pay attention to the level of formality required.
述べる (noberu) is formal and often used in prepared statements or writing, while 言う (iu) is neutral and used in everyday conversation. Use 述べる for speeches, reports, or when you want to sound authoritative.
彼はそのことを言わなかった。
He didn't mention it.
彼女はあなたの名前を出した。
She mentioned your name.