noun
preface; editor's note; postscript
A note written by the author or editor at the beginning or end of a book, explaining its background, purpose, or editorial decisions. Often used in academic or literary contexts.
この本の識語には、著者が研究を始めたきっかけが書かれている。
In the preface of this book, the author writes about what prompted them to start the research.
編集者による識語が巻末に付されている。
An editor's note is appended at the end of the volume.
From 識 (しき, 'knowledge, discernment') + 語 (ご, 'word, language'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term refers to a note that conveys the author's or editor's insight.