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B1 noun #3,000 am häufigsten 9 Min. Lesezeit

概略

gairyaku Top 3,000

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At the A1 level, the word 概略 (gairyaku) is quite advanced, as it is a formal Kanji compound. Beginners usually learn words like '短い話' (mijikai hanashi - short story) or 'まとめ' (matome - summary) first. However, you might see 概略 in very simple contexts like a Japanese language textbook's table of contents. Think of it as 'The Big Picture.' Imagine you have a long book. Instead of reading every page, you read a small paragraph that tells you what happens. That small paragraph is a 概略. Even at A1, you can understand that 概 (gai) means 'around' or 'roughly' and 略 (ryaku) means 'short.' So, it is a 'roughly short' explanation. You don't need to use it in your own speaking yet, but recognizing it on a sign or in a book title is a great first step. For example, '日本の概略' would mean 'A brief outline of Japan.' It is a very polite and professional way to say 'summary.'

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At the A2 level, you are starting to understand more formal Japanese used in workplaces or news. 概略 (gairyaku) is a word you will hear when someone is about to explain something but wants to keep it short. You can think of it as the 'TL;DR' of Japanese. In A2 grammar, you might see it used with the particle 'を' (wo) and the verb '説明する' (setsumei suru - to explain). For example: '話の概略を説明します' (I will explain the outline of the story). This is a very useful phrase if you are giving a small presentation in class or at work. You are telling your listeners, 'Don't worry, I won't talk for too long; I'm just giving the main points.' At this level, you should also notice that 概略 is different from 'あらすじ' (arasuji). While 'あらすじ' is for movies and books, 概略 is for plans, reports, and news. Using 概略 makes you sound more like a serious student or professional.

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At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 概略 (gairyaku) in your own writing and speaking, especially in formal situations. You understand that it means a 'general outline' that omits details to show the overall structure. You can use it to manage expectations in a conversation. For example, if someone asks for details you don't have yet, you can say, '今は概略しか分かりません' (Right now, I only know the outline). This shows a high level of nuance. You are also starting to see 概略 in compound words like '概略図' (gairyaku-zu - schematic diagram). This is common in science or history textbooks. You should be able to distinguish 概略 from 要約 (youyaku). Remember: 要約 is usually for summarizing a text, while 概略 is for outlining a concept or a plan. B1 learners should practice using '概略を述べる' (to state the outline) in their role-plays for business Japanese.

At the B2 level, 概略 (gairyaku) is a standard part of your vocabulary. you use it to navigate complex discussions where you need to synthesize information. You understand its role in academic and professional writing, such as the 'Abstract' of a research paper or the 'Executive Summary' of a proposal. You might use it in sentences like '概略を把握する' (to grasp the outline), which implies a deep understanding of the core logic without needing the granular data. You also recognize its use in legal or official contexts, where a 概略 is provided to make complex laws accessible to the public. At this level, you should be aware of the stylistic choice between 概略 and 概要 (gaiyou). While often interchangeable, 概略 can sometimes feel more 'structural' or 'skeletal.' You can also use the phrase '概略において' (in outline / generally speaking) to qualify your statements, showing a sophisticated grasp of academic hedging.

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At the C1 level, you appreciate the subtle nuances and the 'weight' that 概略 (gairyaku) carries in high-level discourse. You use it to critique the structure of an argument or a plan. For instance, you might say, 'この概略では、最も重要な論点が欠けている' (This outline lacks the most important point of contention). You are also familiar with the kanji's historical and etymological background, understanding how 略 (ryaku) connects to strategy and omission. In C1 reading, you encounter 概略 in philosophical texts or high-level political analysis where the 'outline' of a movement or an era is discussed. You can seamlessly switch between 概略, 骨子 (kosshi), and 大綱 (taikou) depending on the level of abstraction and formality required. Your use of the word is precise, and you never confuse it with more casual terms like 'ざっくり' unless you are deliberately changing registers for effect.

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At the C2 level, your mastery of 概略 (gairyaku) is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You use it in complex rhetorical structures to frame your entire discourse. You might use it to contrast the 'apparent outline' of a situation with its 'hidden complexities.' In professional environments, you are the one who produces the 概略 that others rely on to make strategic decisions. You understand the word's placement in the broader landscape of Japanese 'summary' terminology, including rare or archaic variants. You can discuss the '概略的' (gairyakuteki - outline-like) nature of certain theories, using the word as an adjective to describe abstract concepts. Your understanding is not just linguistic but cultural; you know exactly when a 概略 is sufficient to maintain 'wa' (harmony) and when a detailed 'shousai' is demanded by the situation. You use the word with total confidence across all domains, from law and science to literature and philosophy.

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概略 in 30 Sekunden

概略 (gairyaku) means a formal outline or summary that focuses on the big picture while skipping small details.
It is commonly used in business, news, and academic writing to provide a quick understanding of a complex topic.
The word combines 'general' (概) and 'abbreviated' (略), emphasizing a strategic omission of information.
While similar to '概要' (gaiyou), it often implies a more skeletal or structural representation of the subject.

The Japanese word 概略 (gairyaku) is a sophisticated noun that translates to "outline," "summary," or "general sketch." It is composed of two kanji characters: 概 (gai), meaning "approximate" or "general," and 略 (ryaku), meaning "abbreviation" or "omission." Together, they describe a representation of a subject that omits specific details to provide a clear, high-level overview. In Japanese communication, particularly within professional and academic spheres, being able to provide a 概略 is a valued skill because it demonstrates the ability to synthesize complex information into its most essential components.

Formal Contexts: In business meetings, a presenter might start by saying, "まずは計画の概略を説明します" (First, I will explain the outline of the plan). This sets expectations that the details will follow later, or that the current focus is on the big picture.

会議の前に、報告書の概略に目を通しておいてください。(Please look through the outline of the report before the meeting.)

The word is often used when time is limited. If a manager asks for a 概略, they are essentially saying, "Give me the TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)." It differs from other summary words like 要約 (youyaku) in that 概略 focuses more on the skeletal structure or the 'shape' of the information rather than just condensing the text. For example, a 概略図 (gairyakuzu) is a schematic or rough sketch, showing how the parts of a system relate to each other without being a detailed technical drawing.

Nuance Comparison: Compared to 概要 (gaiyou), which is very common in modern business for 'overview,' 概略 often carries a slightly more 'rough' or 'sketched' connotation. While they are often interchangeable, 概略 emphasizes the omission of details more strongly.

事件の概略を警察に話した。(I gave the police a general outline of the incident.)

In academic writing, the introduction of a paper might provide a 概略 of the methodology. This allows the reader to understand the logic flow before diving into the complex data sets. It is also used in literature to describe the plot without giving away every narrative beat. Culturally, Japanese communication often values the 'whole' before the 'parts,' making the 概略 a crucial linguistic tool for establishing shared understanding (kyouyuu-ninshiki) before proceeding to granular discussions.

Visual Usage: You will often see '概略図' in textbooks or instruction manuals to show a simplified diagram of how a machine or a biological process works.

歴史の概略を学ぶことで、現代社会の理解が深まる。(By learning the outline of history, our understanding of modern society deepens.)

Using 概略 effectively requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as a noun and its role in complex sentences. Most commonly, it functions as a direct object for verbs of communication like 述べる (noberu - to state), 説明する (setsumei suru - to explain), or 記す (shirusu - to write down). Because it is a formal word, it is rarely used in casual slang but is a staple in news, business, and formal documentation.

Common Verb Pairings: 1. 概略を述べる (To state the outline) 2. 概略を掴む (To grasp the general idea) 3. 概略をまとめる (To summarize the main points)

新プロジェクトの概略を、５分で説明してください。(Please explain the outline of the new project in five minutes.)

When describing a document or a section of a book, you can use 概略 as a noun modifier using the particle 'の'. For example, '概略の構成' (the general structure/composition). It can also be used in the pattern '〜の概略', such as '物語の概略' (the outline of the story). This pattern is extremely common in academic abstracts or the 'about' section of a website.

Syntactic Patterns: The word often appears in the structure [Topic] + の + 概略 + は + [Description] + です. For example: "この本の概略は、一人の少年が冒険を通じて成長する物語です。" (The outline of this book is a story about a boy growing through adventure.)

彼はその計画の概略だけを話し、詳細は伏せた。(He spoke only the outline of the plan and kept the details hidden.)

In a passive sense, you might hear '概略が示される' (the outline is shown/indicated). This is common in scientific papers where a model's outline is presented before the data. Another important usage is '概略において' (in general/in outline), which functions similarly to 'roughly speaking.' For instance, '概略において、その意見に賛成です' (Roughly speaking, I agree with that opinion). This use highlights that the speaker agrees with the core logic even if they have reservations about minor details.

Business Email Example: "添付ファイルにて、来月のキャンペーンの概略をお送りいたします。" (I am sending the outline of next month's campaign in the attached file.)

まずは資料の概略を把握することが重要だ。(First, it is important to grasp the outline of the materials.)

You will encounter 概略 primarily in environments where information density is high and time is a premium. It is a 'gatekeeper' word—one that separates casual conversation from professional or analytical discourse. Understanding where it appears helps you gauge the level of formality and the intent of the speaker.

News and Media: News anchors often use 概略 when reporting on a complex legal case or a long government document. They might say, "政府が発表した新法案の概略をお伝えします" (We will bring you the outline of the new bill announced by the government). Here, the word signals to the viewer that they are about to receive the 'bullet points' rather than the full legal text.

ニュース番組で事件の概略が報じられた。(The outline of the incident was reported on the news program.)

In the corporate world, 概略 is ubiquitous in the 'executive summary' phase of a project. During a 'kick-off' meeting, the project leader will present the 概略 to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding goals and timelines. It is also common in the 'Table of Contents' (目次) or 'Introduction' (はじめに) sections of white papers and corporate brochures. If you are reading a Japanese company's annual report, you will likely see a section titled '事業の概略' (Outline of Business Operations).

Legal and Official Documents: Contracts and legal notices often include a 概略 section to help non-experts understand the essence of the agreement without getting bogged down in legalese (difficult legal language).

契約書の概略を読んでから署名した。(I signed the contract after reading the outline.)

In the tech industry, developers use 概略 when discussing software architecture. A 'system 概略' would be a diagram showing how the frontend, backend, and database interact. It is less about the code and more about the logic. Similarly, in the world of art and design, a 概略 might refer to a thumbnail sketch or a storyboard that outlines the flow of a film or commercial. In all these cases, the word implies a 'bird's-eye view' (tori no me) perspective.

Academic Lectures: "今日の講義の概略は以下の通りです" (The outline of today's lecture is as follows). This is a standard opening for many Japanese professors.

この研究の概略は、序論にまとめられている。(The outline of this research is summarized in the introduction.)

While 概略 is a powerful word, learners often misuse it by confusing it with similar terms or applying it in the wrong social register. The most common pitfall is failing to distinguish between 概略 (outline), 概要 (overview), and 要約 (summary). While they overlap, their 'flavor' and typical usage environments differ significantly.

Mistake 1: Confusing 概略 with あらすじ: Learners often use 概略 when talking about the plot of a movie or novel in a casual setting. While technically correct, 'あらすじ' (arasuji) is the standard term for a story's plot. Using 概略 makes you sound like you are giving a formal report on the movie rather than just chatting about it.

Incorrect: 昨日の映画の概略を教えて。 Correct: 昨日の映画のあらすじを教えて。

Another frequent error is the 'level of detail' mistake. 概略 is meant to be brief. If you provide a 概略 that is 20 pages long, you have defeated the purpose of the word. A 概略 should be a 'sketch' (ryaku implies omission). If you find yourself including every data point, you are providing a 詳述 (shoujutsu - detailed explanation) or a 報告 (houkoku - report), not a 概略.

Mistake 2: Over-formalizing Casual Speech: Using 概略 when asking a friend for a quick update on their weekend can sound sarcastic or overly cold. Stick to 'ざっくり' (zakkuri - roughly/roughly speaking) or '簡単に' (kantan ni - simply) in casual contexts.

Stiff: 週末の予定の概略を教えて。 Natural: 週末の予定、ざっくり教えて。

Lastly, be careful with the kanji. 概 (gai) is often confused with 既 (ki - already) or 慨 (gai - lament). Writing '既略' is a common kanji mistake even for native speakers in a hurry. Always remember that 概 contains the 'tree' radical (木) on the left, which can be a mnemonic for the 'sturdy frame' or 'trunk' of an idea.

Mistake 3: Confusing 概略 with 略歴: 略歴 (ryakureki) is specifically a 'brief personal history' or 'bio.' Don't use 概略 to describe your life story; use 略歴.

筆者の略歴を紹介します。(I will introduce the author's brief bio.)

In Japanese, the 'summary' family of words is quite large, and choosing the right one depends on the context, the medium, and what exactly you are summarizing. 概略 sits in a specific niche alongside 概要, 要約, and あらすじ.

1. 概要 (Gaiyou): This is the most common synonym. 概要 is used for 'overviews' of companies, projects, or systems. If 概略 is a 'sketch,' 概要 is a 'summary of the current state.' They are 90% interchangeable, but 概要 is slightly more common in modern business titles (e.g., 会社概要 - Company Overview).

プロジェクトの概要を確認しましょう。(Let's check the project overview.)

While 概略 focuses on the structure, 概要 focuses on the content. Think of 概要 as the 'executive summary' and 概略 as the 'skeleton outline.'

2. 要約 (Youyaku): 要約 is specifically a 'summary' of a text or a speech. It involves taking a large amount of words and condensing them into a few sentences. Unlike 概略, which can refer to a physical sketch or a plan, 要約 is almost always about linguistic content.

長い文章を３行に要約してください。(Please summarize the long text into three lines.)

A 概略 shows the 'shape' of the argument; a 要約 gives you the 'conclusion' and the 'key points' in a condensed form.

3. あらすじ (Arasuji): This is specifically used for the 'plot' of a story, play, or movie. It is less formal than 概略 and is used in everyday conversation about entertainment.

ドラマのあらすじをネットで読んだ。(I read the plot summary of the drama online.)

4. 骨子 (Kosshi): Literally meaning 'bones,' this refers to the 'gist' or 'core' of a proposal or an argument. It is even more skeletal than 概略. If 概略 is a sketch, 骨子 is the fundamental frame.

改革案の骨子が固まった。(The core points of the reform plan have been solidified.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The kanji 略 (ryaku) is also used in 'Invade' (shinryaku), because invading required a strategic plan or a 'short-cut' to power. In 概略, it keeps the 'short-cut' meaning.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ɡaɪ.ɾʲa.kɯ/

US /ɡaɪ.ɾʲa.ku/

Heiban (Flat) pitch accent: ga-i-rya-ku (all syllables roughly equal).

Reimt sich auf

Saikyaku (再却) Taikyaku (退却) Meikyaku (売却) Haikyaku (廃却) Kaikyaku (開脚) Shinkyaku (伸脚) Zankyaku (残客) Keikyaku (軽快)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'ryaku' as two separate syllables 'ri-aku'. It is one syllable with a 'y' glide.
Over-stressing the first syllable like English 'GUY-ryaku'.
Confusing the 'r' with an English 'L' sound.
Pronouncing the final 'u' too strongly; it is often silent or very short.
Misreading the kanji as 'kairyaku'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 4/5

The kanji 概 is slightly complex for beginners but common in newspapers.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires remembering the 'tree' and 'already' radicals for 概.

Sprechen 3/5

The word is easy to pronounce but requires knowing when to use it over '概要'.

Hören 3/5

Clear pronunciation, often found at the beginning of formal speeches.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

短い (Short) 話 (Story/Talk) 説明 (Explanation) 計画 (Plan) まとめ (Summary)

Als Nächstes lernen

概要 (Overview) 要約 (Summary/Abstract) 詳細 (Detail) 骨子 (Core/Gist) 大綱 (Broad outline)

Fortgeschritten

俯瞰 (Bird's-eye view) 網羅 (Exhaustive coverage) 抽象化 (Abstraction) 凝縮 (Condensation) 精査 (Scrutiny)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + の + 概略

計画の概略 (Outline of the plan)

概略 + を + Verb (Communication)

概略を述べる (State the outline)

概略 + において

概略において賛成だ (Agree in outline)

概略 + 的 (Adjectival)

概略的な説明 (An outline-like explanation)

概略 + 図 (Compound)

装置の概略図 (Schematic of the device)

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Beispiele nach Niveau

この本の概略は短いです。

The outline of this book is short.

Simple [Noun] + は + [Adjective] structure.

話の概略を教えてください。

Please tell me the outline of the story.

Use of particle を with the verb 教えてください.

日本の歴史の概略を読みました。

I read an outline of Japanese history.

Noun modification using particle の.

これは計画の概略です。

This is the outline of the plan.

Identifying a subject with です.

概略だけ分かりました。

I understood only the outline.

Use of particle だけ (only) to limit scope.

先生は概略を言いました。

The teacher said the outline.

Basic Subject-Object-Verb order.

映画の概略を聞きました。

I heard the outline of the movie.

Past tense verb 聞きました.

概略は五ページにあります。

The outline is on page five.

Location marking with particle に.

まずは、明日の予定の概略を説明します。

First, I will explain the outline of tomorrow's schedule.

Adverb 'まずは' (first of all) used for sequencing.

報告書の概略を書いてください。

Please write the outline of the report.

Polite request using 〜てください.

ニュースで事件の概略を知りました。

I learned the outline of the incident from the news.

Source marking with particle で.

この図は機械の概略を示しています。

This diagram shows the outline of the machine.

Verb '示す' (to show/indicate) in progressive form.

会議の概略をメモしました。

I took notes on the outline of the meeting.

Noun 'メモ' used as a verb with 'しました'.

彼はその物語の概略を上手に話した。

He told the outline of that story skillfully.

Adverbial use of '上手' (skillfully).

概略を読んで、内容を理解しました。

I read the outline and understood the content.

Connecting two actions with the 'te-form'.

仕事の概略をメールで送ります。

I will send the outline of the work by email.

Means/method marking with particle で.

新プロジェクトの概略を把握するのに時間がかかった。

It took time to grasp the outline of the new project.

Nominalizing a verb with 'の' to make it a subject.

資料の概略に目を通しておいてください。

Please look through the outline of the materials in advance.

Use of 〜ておく for preparatory actions.

彼は概略だけを述べ、詳細は後回しにした。

He stated only the outline and postponed the details.

Contrastive use of 'だけ' and '詳細は'.

この論文の概略は、序論の最後に書かれています。

The outline of this paper is written at the end of the introduction.

Passive voice '書かれています'.

概略をまとめるのは、意外と難しい作業だ。

Summarizing an outline is surprisingly difficult work.

Adverb '意外と' (surprisingly) adding nuance.

事件の概略が明らかになってきた。

The outline of the incident has become clear.

Aspect marker '〜てくる' indicating a process over time.

概略において、彼の意見には賛成できる。

In outline, I can agree with his opinion.

Formal phrase '概略において' (in outline/generally).

その計画の概略図をホワイトボードに描いた。

I drew a schematic diagram of the plan on the whiteboard.

Compound noun '概略図' (schematic diagram).

政府は新法案の概略を公表した。

The government made the outline of the new bill public.

Formal verb '公表する' (to publish/make public).

話の概略から判断すると、彼は無実のようだ。

Judging from the outline of the story, it seems he is innocent.

Grammar pattern '〜から判断すると' (judging from).

まずは全体の概略を掴み、それから各論に入りましょう。

First, let's grasp the overall outline, and then enter into specific discussions.

Contrast between '概略' and '各論' (specifics).

研究の概略を三語以内で表現するのは不可能だ。

It is impossible to express the outline of research in three words or less.

Constraint marking with '〜以内' (within).

彼は契約の概略を十分に理解していなかった。

He did not sufficiently understand the outline of the contract.

Negative progressive form '理解していなかった'.

その映画の概略を聞いただけで、結末が予想できた。

Just by hearing the outline of that movie, I could predict the ending.

Condition '〜ただけで' (just by doing).

概略を記したパンフレットを配布した。

We distributed pamphlets that contained an outline.

Relative clause '概略を記した' modifying 'パンフレット'.

この本は、西洋哲学の概略を網羅している。

This book covers the general outline of Western philosophy.

Formal verb '網羅する' (to cover/encompass).

事態の概略を把握した上で、適切な処置を講じる必要がある。

After grasping the outline of the situation, it is necessary to take appropriate measures.

Pattern '〜た上で' (after doing/upon doing).

彼の説明は概略に留まり、具体的な解決策は示されなかった。

His explanation remained at an outline level, and no concrete solutions were shown.

Verb '留まる' (to remain/stop at).

その理論の概略を簡潔にまとめるのは、高度な知的能力を要する。

Summarizing the outline of that theory concisely requires high intellectual ability.

Formal verb '要する' (to require).

歴史の概略を俯瞰することで、個々の出来事の関連性が見えてくる。

By taking a bird's-eye view of history's outline, the connections between individual events become visible.

Verb '俯瞰する' (to take a bird's-eye view).

概略のみを記した文書では、誤解を招く恐れがある。

There is a risk of inviting misunderstanding with a document that only records an outline.

Pattern '〜恐れがある' (there is a fear/risk that).

彼は交渉の概略を上司に報告し、次の指示を仰いだ。

He reported the outline of the negotiations to his boss and sought further instructions.

Formal verb '仰ぐ' (to seek/look up to).

この地図は都市計画の概略を示したもので、詳細は変更される可能性がある。

This map shows the outline of the city plan, and details are subject to change.

Explanatory '〜たものである' structure.

学説の概略を批判的に検討することが、研究の第一歩だ。

Critically examining the outline of a theory is the first step of research.

Adverbial '批判的に' (critically).

事象の概略を抽象化する過程で、本質的な要素が抽出される。

In the process of abstracting the outline of a phenomenon, essential elements are extracted.

Technical vocabulary: '抽象化' (abstraction), '抽出' (extraction).

その思想の概略を辿れば、中世の宗教観に突き当たる。

If you trace the outline of that thought, you will run into medieval religious views.

Conditional '〜ば' with metaphorical '突き当たる'.

概略的な理解に甘んじることなく、細部まで徹底的に究明すべきだ。

Without being content with an outline-level understanding, one should investigate thoroughly to the details.

Pattern '〜に甘んじる' (to be content with/settle for).

法案の概略が、国民の権利をいかに制限するかを精査しなければならない。

We must scrutinize how the outline of the bill restricts the rights of the citizens.

Embedded question with 'いかに' (how).

歴史の概略は、勝者によって書き換えられる運命にある。

The outline of history is destined to be rewritten by the victors.

Passive '書き換えられる' and '運命にある' (to be destined).

複雑な経済状況の概略を一枚の紙に凝縮するのは、至難の業だ。

Condensing the outline of a complex economic situation onto a single sheet of paper is a Herculean task.

Idiom '至難の業' (extremely difficult task).

概略を提示した段階で、既に多くの反論が寄せられた。

At the stage where the outline was presented, many counterarguments had already been received.

Noun '段階' (stage/phase) as a time marker.

その宇宙論の概略は、我々の既存の常識を根底から覆すものだった。

The outline of that cosmology was something that overturned our existing common sense from the roots.

Idiom '根底から覆す' (overturn from the foundation).

Synonyme

あらまし概要要旨レジュメ大筋

Gegenteile

詳細詳報

Häufige Kollokationen

概略を述べる

概略を掴む

概略を説明する

概略を記す

概略図

概略において

事業の概略

物語の概略

概略設計

概略的な

Häufige Phrasen

概略は以下の通りです

— The outline is as follows. Used to introduce a list of main points.

本日のスケジュールの概略は以下の通りです。

概略だけお伝えします

— I will just give you the outline. Used when time is short.

お急ぎとのことですので、概略だけお伝えします。

概略を把握する

— To grasp the general idea. Used when starting to learn something new.

まずは歴史の概略を把握することが大切だ。

概略をまとめる

— To summarize the outline. Used when synthesizing information.

週末までに報告書の概略をまとめてください。

概略に目を通す

— To look through the outline. Used for quick review.

会議の前に資料の概略に目を通しておく。

概略を提示する

— To present an outline. Used in formal proposals.

新しい企画の概略を提示した。

概略を理解する

— To understand the outline. Used to confirm comprehension.

概略を理解した上で、詳細を話し合いましょう。

概略の構成

— The general structure. Used in design or writing.

文章の概略の構成を考える。

概略を記した資料

— Materials documenting the outline.

概略を記した資料をメールに添付します。

概略的に言うと

— To speak in general terms. Used for quick summaries.

概略的に言うと、このプロジェクトは成功でした。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

概略 vs 概要 (Gaiyou)

Gaiyou is more common for 'overviews' of entities (like a company). Gairyaku is more common for 'outlines' of logic or stories.

概略 vs 要約 (Youyaku)

Youyaku is the act of condensing a text. Gairyaku is the resulting structural outline.

概略 vs あらすじ (Arasuji)

Arasuji is strictly for entertainment plots. Gairyaku is broader and more formal.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"一を以て万を知る"

— To know the whole by seeing a part. Similar to grasping a 概略.

彼の態度の概略を見れば、性格がわかる。一を以て万を知るだ。

Literary

"木を見て森を見ず"

— To see the trees but not the forest. The opposite of focusing on the 概略.

細部にこだわりすぎて概略を見失うのは、木を見て森を見ずだ。

Proverb

"大所高所から"

— From a broad perspective. How one should look at a 概略.

大所高所から問題の概略を捉える。

Formal

"ざっくり言うと"

— To put it roughly. A casual equivalent of providing a 概略.

ざっくり言うと、この話は嘘だよ。

Informal

"要は〜ということだ"

— The point is... Used after giving a 概略.

概略を話しましたが、要は予算が足りないということです。

Neutral

"枝葉末節を省く"

— To omit minor details. The act of creating a 概略.

枝葉末節を省いて、事件の概略だけを伝える。

Formal

"鳥の目"

— Bird's-eye view. The perspective needed for a 概略.

鳥の目で事業の概略を俯瞰する。

Business

"話の腰を折る"

— To interrupt a story. Often happens when someone asks for a 概略 too early.

話の腰を折って悪いが、概略だけ先に教えてくれ。

Neutral

"核心を突く"

— To hit the core. A good 概略 should do this.

彼の概略説明は、問題の核心を突いていた。

Neutral

"一目瞭然"

— Apparent at a glance. What a good 概略図 should be.

この概略図を見れば、使い方は一目瞭然だ。

Neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

概略 vs 概説 (Gaisetsu)

Both start with 概.

Gaisetsu is a general explanation or an introductory lecture on a whole field (e.g., 'Introduction to Linguistics'). Gairyaku is an outline of a specific thing.

言語学概説の授業を受ける。

概略 vs 簡略 (Kanryaku)

Both end with 略.

Kanryaku means 'simple' or 'simplified.' It describes the quality of being simple. Gairyaku is the noun 'outline' itself.

手続きを簡略にする。

概略 vs 省略 (Shouryaku)

Both end with 略.

Shouryaku is the act of omitting something. Gairyaku is the summary that remains after details are omitted.

詳しい説明を省略する。

概略 vs 略歴 (Ryakureki)

Both involve a summary.

Ryakureki is specifically a personal biography or CV summary. Gairyaku is for concepts/plans.

筆者の略歴。

概略 vs 大要 (Taiyou)

Both mean summary.

Taiyou is a very formal, somewhat old-fashioned word for 'the main points.' Gairyaku is more modern and common.

計画の大要を記す。

Satzmuster

[Noun] の概略です。

これは物語の概略です。

まずは [Noun] の概略を説明します。

まずは今日の予定の概略を説明します。

[Noun] の概略に目を通す。

資料の概略に目を通しておいてください。

概略から判断すると、〜。

概略から判断すると、成功の可能性は高い。

概略を把握した上で、〜。

概略を把握した上で、次のステップに進む。

概略的な理解に甘んじることなく、〜。

概略的な理解に甘んじることなく、本質を追及する。

概略において [Opinion]。

概略において、その提案に賛成です。

[Noun] の概略図を作成する。

システムの概略図を作成しました。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

概略 (Outline)

概要 (Overview)

概説 (General statement)

概算 (Rough estimate)

Verben

略す (To abbreviate)

省略する (To omit)

概括する (To generalize)

Adjektive

概略的な (Outline-like)

大まかな (Rough/General)

Verwandt

要約 (Summary)

詳細 (Detail)

抜粋 (Excerpt)

梗概 (Synopsis)

粗筋 (Plot)

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frequency

Very common in professional, academic, and media contexts. Rare in casual daily speech.

Häufige Fehler

Using 概略 for a person's biography. → 略歴 (Ryakureki)
概略 is for abstract concepts or events, not personal histories.
Saying 概略の細部 (Details of the outline). → 概略と詳細 (Outline and details)
An outline by definition omits details, so the phrase is a contradiction.
Using 概略 when talking to a small child. → まとめ (Matome)
概略 is too formal/academic for children to understand easily.
Writing 既略 instead of 概略. → 概略
The first kanji must have the 'tree' radical (木). 既 means 'already'.
Using 概略 as a synonym for 'almost' in numbers. → およそ / 約 (Yaku)
While 概 means 'approximate,' 概略 is a noun for a summary, not a numerical adverb.

Tipps

Use for Structure

Use 概略 when you want to emphasize the logical flow or structure of an idea rather than just the conclusion.

Abstracts

When writing an abstract for a paper, the first sentence often provides the 概略 of the research topic.

Time Management

Saying '概略だけ...' is a polite way to tell a busy person you won't take much of their time.

Radical Clue

The 'ryaku' (略) kanji contains 'field' (田) and 'each' (各), suggesting dividing a field into main sections.

Synonym Choice

If you are making a PowerPoint slide title, '概要' is usually a safer bet than '概略'.

Reporting

In a 'Hou-Ren-Sou' (Report-Contact-Consult) culture, giving a 概略 quickly is better than a delayed detailed report.

JLPT Tip

概略 is a common word in JLPT N2 and N1 reading sections. Practice identifying it in long passages.

Respecting Hierarchy

When reporting to a superior, always ask if they want the 概略 or the shousai (details) first.

The Skeleton

Associate 概略 with a bone skeleton; it shows the shape but not the flesh.

Particle Match

概略 is most often used with the particle 'を' followed by communication verbs.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Guy (概) has a Rough (略) plan.' Guy is a general manager who only gives the general outline.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a skeleton of a building. It shows the shape (概略) but doesn't have the walls or windows (details) yet.

Word Web

概略概要要約詳細計画説明把握まとめる

Herausforderung

Try to explain the 概略 of your favorite movie in exactly three Japanese sentences. Use the word 概略 in the first sentence.

Wortherkunft

The word 概略 consists of two kanji: 概 (gai) and 略 (ryaku). 概 originally referred to a wooden leveling rod used to level off grain in a measuring box, hence meaning 'approximate' or 'general appearance.' 略 originally meant 'land division' or 'strategy,' evolving to mean 'omission' or 'abbreviation.'

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To level off the details and leave a strategic abbreviation.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Kultureller Kontext

No specific sensitivities, but avoid using it casually with children as it sounds overly academic.

In English, we might say 'The gist' or 'The long and short of it.' 概略 is more formal than 'gist' but less technical than 'abstract.'

Japanese Government White Papers always begin with a 概略. NHK News 'Summary' segments. Textbook introductions.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Business Meetings

概略を説明する
概略を把握する
概略資料
概略案

Academic Writing

論文の概略
研究の概略
概略を記す
概略図

News Reporting

事件の概略
法案の概略
概略が報じられる
概略が公表される

Project Management

計画の概略
工程の概略
概略設計
概略予算

Literature/Art

物語の概略
作品の概略
あらすじの概略
概略を辿る

Gesprächseinstiege

"まずは今回のプロジェクトの概略を教えていただけますか？ (Could you first tell me the outline of this project?)"

"そのニュースの概略を読みましたが、詳細はまだ分かりません。 (I read the outline of that news, but I don't know the details yet.)"

"今日の会議の概略を、後でメールで送ってもらえますか？ (Could you send me the outline of today's meeting by email later?)"

"この本の概略を聞いて、とても読みたくなりました。 (After hearing the outline of this book, I really want to read it.)"

"事件の概略については、警察の発表を待つ必要があります。 (Regarding the outline of the incident, we need to wait for the police announcement.)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

今日学んだ新しい日本語の単語の概略を書いてみましょう。 (Try writing an outline of the new Japanese words you learned today.)

あなたの将来の夢の概略を、日本語で三つのポイントにまとめてください。 (Please summarize the outline of your future dreams in Japanese into three points.)

最近読んだ本や見た映画の概略を、日記に記してください。 (Record the outline of a book you recently read or a movie you saw in your diary.)

今週一週間の予定の概略を日本語で考えてみましょう。 (Think about the outline of your schedule for this week in Japanese.)

自分が住んでいる町の歴史の概略を調べて書いてください。 (Research and write the outline of the history of the town where you live.)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, you should use '略歴' (ryakureki) for a brief personal history or '半生' (hansei) for a life story. 概略 is for plans, stories, or events.

They are similar in formality, but 概要 is more standard in business titles (like 'Company Overview'). 概略 feels slightly more academic or structural.

You should use 'まとめると' (matomeruto) or '要約すると' (youyakusuru to). '概略を述べると' is used at the beginning to introduce an outline.

While '概略する' exists, it is rare. It is much more natural to use '概略を述べる' or '要約する'.

It is a schematic diagram or a rough sketch that shows how something works without being a detailed technical drawing.

In a formal report, yes. In a conversation with friends, 'あらすじ' is much more natural.

要点 (youten) refers to the 'main points' or 'key points.' 概略 is the 'outline' that contains those points in a structured way.

Start with the 'tree' radical (木) on the left. On the right, write 'already' (既). Remember: The tree is the trunk of the summary.

Yes, as '概略の' (noun + の) or '概略的な' (na-adjective). Both mean 'general' or 'outline-like'.

'Zakkuri' is the casual, spoken version. You would use 'zakkuri' with friends and '概略' in a report.

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