顕著な

Let's talk about the Japanese word 顕著な (けんちょな), which is a useful adjective for describing things that are clearly noticeable, evident, or remarkable. It's rated B1 on the CEFR scale, meaning it's a good word to add to your vocabulary as you become more proficient in Japanese.

§ What 顕著な Means

DEFINITION

Clearly noticeable or evident; remarkable.

You use 顕著な when you want to highlight something that stands out significantly. It's stronger than just saying something is 'visible' or 'present.' It implies a certain degree of prominence or importance.

§ Examples of 顕著な in Use

Here are some examples to help you understand how to use 顕著な in sentences. Pay attention to the context.

His efforts brought about remarkable results.

In this region, population increase is a prominent problem.

Her talent was evident from a young age.

§ Similar Words and When to Use 顕著な vs Alternatives

Japanese has several words that can seem similar to 顕著な. Let's look at a few and clarify when to use each one.

• 目立つ (めだつ): This means 'to stand out' or 'to be conspicuous.' While similar, 目立つ often carries a more neutral or even slightly negative connotation, like standing out in a crowd. 顕著な tends to be more about a clear, objective observation of something significant.

She always wears flashy clothes and stands out.

• 明白な (めいはくな): This means 'clear,' 'obvious,' or 'evident.' 明白な is very close to 顕著な, and in some contexts, they are interchangeable. However, 明白な emphasizes the clarity and lack of doubt, while 顕著な often highlights the degree or extent to which something is noticeable. You might use 明白な for something that is unequivocally true, like '明白な証拠' (clear evidence). 顕著な is better for describing trends or changes that are strong and easily observed.

That fact is obvious.

• 著しい (いちじるしい): This is another adjective meaning 'remarkable,' 'striking,' or 'considerable.' 著しい is often used to describe a significant change, difference, or growth. It focuses on the magnitude of something. 顕著な can also express magnitude, but it puts more emphasis on the 'noticeable' aspect. If you want to say 'a remarkable improvement,' both 顕著な改善 and 著しい改善 are usually fine, but 著しい might emphasize the 'largeness' of the improvement a bit more.

Recent technological advancements are remarkable.

When to choose 顕著な:

Use 顕著な when you want to emphasize that something is clearly visible, easily observed, or unequivocally apparent, often in a way that implies significance. It's a good all-around word for expressing 'noticeable' or 'evident' in a formal or semi-formal context. Think of it as 'clearly and significantly apparent.'

Understanding these nuances will help you choose the most appropriate word for the situation. Keep practicing, and you'll master them in no time!