noun
written explanation; letter of explanation; statement of defense
A formal document explaining one's actions or position, often used in legal, business, or official contexts to clarify or justify conduct.
会社は不正の疑いについて弁明書を提出した。
The company submitted a written explanation regarding the suspicion of misconduct.
弁明書には、なぜその決定を下したのかが詳しく述べられていた。
The statement of explanation detailed why that decision was made.
釈明 is a verbal explanation or vindication, typically in person, whereas 弁明書 is a written formal statement.
Compound of 弁明 (explanation, justification) + 書 (document, writing). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word follows a common pattern for formal written statements.