noun
superficial knowledge; half knowledge
A yojijukugo meaning knowing only part of something, lacking deep understanding. Often used critically of oneself or others.
半知半解のまま人に教えるのは危険だ。
It's dangerous to teach others with only half knowledge.
彼の説明は半知半解で、かえって混乱した。
His explanation was superficial and only made things more confusing.
A yojijukugo composed of 半 (half) + 知 (know) + 半 (half) + 解 (understand), literally 'half knowing, half understanding'. The exact origin is uncertain, but it follows a common four-character pattern for partial or incomplete states.