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記述する

B1 verb #3,000 most common 8 min read

記述する

kijutsu suru Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 記述する in 30 Seconds

Explanation 記述する in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use '記述する' (kijutsu suru) in your daily speech. It is a very formal word. At this stage, focus on simpler words like '書く' (kaku - to write) or '話す' (hanasu - to speak). If you want to say 'I describe my family,' you would simply say 'Kazoku ni tsuite hanashimasu.' However, you might see this word on a very formal document or a Japanese test paper. Just remember that 'ki' (記) looks like a notebook and 'jutsu' (述) looks like someone walking along a path telling a story. Together, they mean 'writing down a story' or 'recording facts.' For now, treat it as a 'passive' word—one you recognize but don't feel pressured to use.

At the A2 level, you are starting to see more 'kanji' compounds. '記述する' is a 'suru-verb.' You might encounter it in classroom instructions. For example, if your teacher says 'Kijutsu shite kudasai,' they want you to write your answer in full sentences instead of just circling a choice. You can start to distinguish it from 'setsumei suru' (to explain). While 'setsumei' is common for talking, 'kijutsu' is almost always about writing. If you are keeping a study journal, you could say 'Kyou benkyou shita koto wo kijutsu shimashita' (I wrote down what I studied today), although it still sounds very formal. Try to notice it in news headlines or textbook titles.

At the B1 level, you should begin to use '記述する' in your formal writing and understand its specific nuance. This is the level where you move beyond basic communication into academic or professional Japanese. When writing an essay or a report, use '記述する' instead of 'kaku' when you want to sound more objective and professional. For example, 'Kono repooto de wa, mondai no haikei wo kijutsu shimasu' (In this report, I will describe the background of the problem). You should also be comfortable with the passive form '記述されている' (is described), which is very common when referring to what is written in books or manuals. This word helps you sound more like an adult and less like a student.

At the B2 level, '記述する' is an essential part of your vocabulary. You are expected to use it correctly in business reports, academic papers, and when discussing technical specifications. You should understand the difference between '記述' (objective description) and '描写' (vivid/literary depiction). If you are describing the results of a market survey, 'kijutsu' is the right choice. If you are describing the atmosphere of a meeting, 'byousha' or 'setsumei' might be better. You should also recognize its use in computer science (e.g., 'kijutsu gengo' for description languages like HTML or CSS) and linguistics. Your ability to use this word correctly shows you can handle formal, structured Japanese.

At the C1 level, you use '記述する' with precision and stylistic awareness. You understand that '記述' implies a certain methodology—it's not just writing; it's the systematic recording of data or observations. You can use it to critique texts, such as saying 'Kono kijutsu wa kyakkan-sei ni kakeru' (This description lacks objectivity). You are also familiar with related terms like '記述統計学' (descriptive statistics) or '記述的' (descriptive). At this level, you might use it to discuss the nuances of legal language or high-level academic discourse. You use it to distinguish between what is explicitly stated (kijutsu sarete iru) and what is implied (anhitsu sarete iru).

At the C2 level, '記述する' is a tool for precise intellectual expression. You are fully aware of its historical and linguistic weight. You might use it in philosophical debates about the nature of language and reality—how we 'describe' the world versus how it 'is.' You can navigate complex legal documents where the exact 'kijutsu' of a law determines its application. You use the word to maintain a perfect formal register in high-stakes environments, such as publishing research or delivering keynote speeches in Japanese. You understand the subtle differences between '記述,' '記載,' '記録,' and '言及,' and you choose the exact word to convey the intended level of formality and scope.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

記述する in 30 Seconds

A formal verb meaning to describe or record something in writing, typically used in academic, legal, or technical contexts.
It emphasizes objectivity and detail, focusing on facts rather than artistic or sensory impressions found in words like 'byousha'.
Commonly encountered in Japanese exams (descriptive type questions) and professional reports to document findings or processes.
Follows the 'suru-verb' conjugation and usually takes the particle 'wo' for the object being described.

The Japanese verb 記述する (kijutsu suru) is a sophisticated term primarily used to describe the act of recording, stating, or detailing something in a written format. While the English translation 'to describe' is accurate, it carries a much more formal and objective nuance than everyday words like hanasu (to talk) or setsumei suru (to explain). In Japanese, the kanji 記 (ki) means to write down or chronicle, and 述 (jutsu) means to state or mention. Together, they form a word that implies a structured, often academic or technical, written account of facts, observations, or theories.

Formal Context: This word is a staple in academic writing, legal documents, and technical manuals. When a researcher documents their findings, they are 'kijutsu suru' those findings. It suggests a level of precision and objectivity that is not necessarily required in creative writing.
Educational Context: Students in Japan frequently encounter this word in the term kijutsu-shiki (descriptive style), referring to exam questions that require written sentences or essays rather than multiple-choice answers. If a test asks you to 'kijutsu suru' your opinion, it expects a logical, written explanation.

この論文では、実験のプロセスを詳細に記述する必要がある。(In this paper, it is necessary to describe the experimental process in detail.)

Understanding the boundary of this word is crucial. You would rarely use kijutsu suru when talking to a friend about your weekend. Instead, you would use hanasu or setsumei suru. Using kijutsu suru in casual conversation would make you sound like a textbook or a legal document. However, in professional settings, it demonstrates a high level of literacy and professional command of the language.

事実をありのままに記述することが、記者の使命だ。(Describing the facts as they are is the mission of a journalist.)

Furthermore, kijutsu suru is used in the field of linguistics and computer science. For example, 'descriptive linguistics' is kijutsu gengogaku. In programming, defining the behavior of a system is often referred to as kijutsu. This highlights its role in defining the parameters of reality or logic through structured language.

Objective Reporting: It is used when the writer wants to remain neutral. It focuses on the 'what' and 'how' rather than the 'why' or the personal feelings of the writer.

マニュアルには、操作手順が簡潔に記述されている。(The operating procedures are concisely described in the manual.)

Grammatically, 記述する is a Suru-verb, which means it follows the standard conjugation patterns of suru. It typically takes a direct object marked by the particle wo (を). The object is usually a noun representing information, a process, a situation, or a fact. Common adverbs that accompany kijutsu suru include shousai ni (in detail), kanketsu ni (concisely), and seikaku ni (accurately).

状況を正確に記述することは難しい。(It is difficult to describe the situation accurately.)

Passive Form: The passive form kijutsu sareru is extremely common in academic and formal texts to indicate that information is 'contained' or 'stated' in a document. For example, 'The results are described in Chapter 3' would be Kekka wa dai-san-shou ni kijutsu sarete iru.

When using this verb, the focus is on the act of writing. If you are describing something verbally, kijutsu suru might feel slightly out of place unless you are referring to the formal content of a speech that was previously written. In most cases, if there is no paper or digital text involved, consider alternatives.

彼はその事件の一部始終を日記に記述した。(He described the whole story of the incident in his diary.)

In a professional report, you might use the polite form kijutsu itashimasu to show humility when describing your own work or findings. Conversely, when reading instructions, you will often see the plain form or the -te kudasai form, such as kijutsu shite kudasai (please describe/state).

Noun Modification: You can use the dictionary form to modify nouns directly: kijutsu suru koto (the act of describing) or kijutsu shita naiyou (the content that was described).

契約書には、違約金に関する条項が記述されています。(The contract describes clauses regarding penalties.)

You will encounter 記述する in specific, high-stakes environments. It is not a 'street' word, but it is a 'success' word—meaning you need it to succeed in Japanese society, especially in education and career paths. One of the most common places to hear it is in a university lecture hall. A professor might say, 'Please describe the historical background of this event in your report' (Repooto de kono dekigoto no rekishiteki haikei wo kijutsu shite kudasai).

政府の報告書は、経済の現状を楽観的に記述している。(The government report describes the current state of the economy optimistically.)

TV News and Documentaries: Narrators in serious documentaries use kijutsu suru when discussing historical records or scientific observations. It lends an air of authority and factual reliability to the narration.
Legal and Business Meetings: When lawyers or business professionals discuss contracts, they will focus on how specific terms are 'kijutsu' (described/stated) in the document. They might argue that a certain clause is 'ambiguously described' (aimai ni kijutsu sarete iru).

In the tech world, developers use this word when talking about code or specifications. For example, 'How to describe the UI layout in the config file' would involve kijutsu. It implies a formal declaration of logic or structure.

この古文書には、当時の生活様式が詳しく記述されている。(The lifestyle of that time is described in detail in this ancient document.)

Finally, you will see it in news articles. When a journalist says 'The police described the suspect as...', they might use setsumei shita for the verbal part, but if they are referring to the written police report, they will use kijutsu shita. It highlights the transition from spoken word to permanent record.

The most common mistake learners make with 記述する is using it in a casual or purely verbal context. Because English speakers often use 'describe' for both speaking and writing, they tend to over-apply kijutsu suru where setsumei suru (explain) or byousha suru (depict/portray) would be more natural.

Mistake 1: Casual Conversation: Incorrect: Kinou no paatii wo kijutsu shite! (Describe yesterday's party!)
Correct: Kinou no paatii no koto, oshiete! or setsumei shite!. Using kijutsu here makes you sound like you want a formal written report of the party.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Byousha': While both mean 'describe,' byousha focuses on vivid, sensory, or artistic depiction (like describing a sunset or a character's emotions in a novel). Kijutsu is for facts, data, and logical statements. Don't use kijutsu for poetic descriptions.

❌ 彼の悲しみを記述した小説。(A novel that described his sadness - sounds like a medical report.)
✅ 彼の悲しみを描写した小説。(A novel that depicted his sadness - artistic and natural.)

Another mistake is the particle usage. While wo kijutsu suru is standard, some learners try to use ni kijutsu suru for the object. Remember: ni is for the location (where you write it), and wo is for the content (what you write).

❌ 報告書に結果を記述した。(Correct: I described the results in the report.)
❌ 報告書が結果を記述した。(Incorrect: The report [as an actor] described the results - slightly personified, use passive kijutsu sarete iru instead.)

Lastly, don't confuse kijutsu suru with kisa suru (記載する). Kisai is even more formal and usually refers to 'mentioning' or 'listing' items in a ledger, list, or official record. Kijutsu allows for more sentence-based narrative than kisai.

To truly master 記述する, you must know its neighbors in the Japanese vocabulary. Depending on what you are describing and how you are doing it, another word might be more appropriate.

説明する (Setsumei suru): The most versatile word for 'explain' or 'describe.' It can be spoken or written. Use this if your goal is to make someone understand a concept or reason.
描写する (Byousha suru): Use this for sensory descriptions—sights, sounds, and feelings. It is the word for 'portrayal' or 'depiction' in literature and art.
述べる (Noberu): A formal way to say 'state' or 'mention.' It is often used for expressing opinions or giving a speech. It focuses on the act of stating rather than the detailed documentation of kijutsu.

意見を述べる (State an opinion) vs. 実験結果を記述する (Describe experimental results).

記載する (Kisai suru): Used for 'entering' or 'recording' information in a specific place, like a form or a database. It's more about 'listing' than 'describing.'
記す (Shirusu): A more literary or old-fashioned way to say 'to write down' or 'to mark.' It often carries a sense of recording something for posterity or personal memory.

その本は、18世紀の生活を鮮やかに描写している。(That book vividly depicts life in the 18th century.)

In summary, choose 記述する when you are writing a formal report, an exam answer, or a technical document where accuracy and factual detail are paramount. It is the language of the professional and the scholar.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The 'jutsu' (述) in 'kijutsu' is the same character used in 'nobel' (述べる), showing they share the core meaning of 'stating' or 'telling.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ki.dʒu.tsu su.ru/

US /ki.dʒu.tsu su.ru/

Pitch accent: kiJUtsu (L-H-L). The stress rises on the second syllable.

Rhymes With

Gijutsu (technology) Bijutsu (art) Janjutsu (tactics) Gakujutsu (academic) Majutsu (magic) Yojutsu (sorcery) Shin jutsu (new technique) Kenjutsu (swordsmanship)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'too' (it should be like 'cats').
Over-emphasizing the 'u' at the end of 'suru' (it should be nearly silent).
Confusing with 'kijitsu' (deadline).
Pronouncing 'ki' as 'kee' with too much length.
Failing to devoice the 'u' sounds in fast speech.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji are common but the word is formal.

Writing 4/5

Writing 'jutsu' (述) requires practice.

Speaking 4/5

Rarely used in casual speech; requires knowledge of formal registers.

Listening 3/5

Distinct sound, but can be confused with 'kijitsu'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

書く説明する事実文章内容

Learn Next

記載する描写する述べる論じる報告する

Advanced

記述的妥当性記述統計学メタ記述

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs

記述する、記述した、記述します

Passive voice with suru-verbs

記述される、記述されている

Adverbial modification

詳しく記述する、正確に記述する

Noun modification with verbs

記述する内容 (The content that [I] describe)

Nominalization with 'koto'

記述することは難しい (Describing is difficult)

Examples by Level

ここに名前を記述してください。

Please write (describe) your name here.

Using 'kijutsu' for just a name is very formal.

本の内容を記述します。

I will write down the content of the book.

Suru-verb in polite form.

事実を記述することは大切です。

Describing facts is important.

Koto turns the verb into a noun phrase.

彼は日記に記述した。

He wrote it down in his diary.

Past tense 'shita'.

答えを記述してください。

Please write down the answer.

Te-form for a polite request.

詳しい記述があります。

There is a detailed description.

Kijutsu used as a noun.

何を記述すればいいですか？

What should I describe?

Ba-ii form for asking advice.

正しく記述してください。

Please describe it correctly.

Adverb 'tadashiku' modifying the verb.

このテストは記述式です。

This test is a descriptive (written) type.

Kijutsu-shiki is a common compound noun.

実験の結果を記述しました。

I described the results of the experiment.

Formal use for reporting.

状況を詳しく記述してください。

Please describe the situation in detail.

Kuwashiku is a common adverb for kijutsu.

マニュアルに記述されています。

It is described in the manual.

Passive form 'sarete iru'.

自分の意見を記述する。

To describe/state one's own opinion.

Dictionary form used as a statement.

簡潔に記述することが求められる。

You are required to describe it concisely.

Kanketsu ni (concisely) is a formal adverb.

歴史を記述する本を読む。

Read a book that describes history.

Relative clause modifying 'hon'.

事実のみを記述してください。

Please describe only the facts.

Nomi (only) adds emphasis.

論文の目的を記述しなければならない。

I must describe the purpose of the thesis.

Nakereba naranai (must).

その現象を科学的に記述する。

To describe the phenomenon scientifically.

Kagakuteki ni (scientifically) shows high register.

契約書には詳細が記述されていない。

The details are not described in the contract.

Negative passive form.

著者は当時の社会を記述している。

The author is describing the society of that time.

Te-iru form for ongoing state/action.

この章では、背景を記述します。

In this chapter, I will describe the background.

Setting the scope of a text.

正確に記述することが不可欠だ。

It is essential to describe it accurately.

Fukaketsu (essential) is B1/B2 level vocabulary.

出来事を客観的に記述する。

Describe the events objectively.

Kyakkan-teki (objective) is a key collocation.

彼は自分の体験を記述し始めた。

He began to describe his experience.

Verb stem + hajimeta (began to).

この仕様書はシステムの動作を記述している。

This specification document describes the system's behavior.

Shiyousho (specification) is professional jargon.

報告書には改善策が記述されている。

The improvement measures are described in the report.

Kaizensaku (improvement measures).

歴史家はその事件を多角的に記述した。

The historian described the incident from multiple perspectives.

Takakuteki (multilateral/diverse).

法律には権利の範囲が記述されている。

The scope of rights is described in the law.

Han-i (scope) is a formal concept.

不正確な記述は混乱を招く恐れがある。

Inaccurate descriptions may lead to confusion.

Osore ga aru (there is a fear/risk that).

統計データをグラフと文で記述する。

Describe statistical data with graphs and text.

Combining visual and written data.

マニュアルの記述に従って操作する。

Operate according to the description in the manual.

Ni shitagatte (according to).

彼の理論は、この論文で詳しく記述された。

His theory was described in detail in this paper.

Passive past tense.

その記述は、事実関係と矛盾している。

That description contradicts the factual relations.

Mujun (contradiction) is advanced vocabulary.

記述内容の信憑性を検証する必要がある。

It is necessary to verify the credibility of the described content.

Shinpyousei (credibility) and kenshou (verification).

作者は意図的に曖昧な記述を避けた。

The author intentionally avoided ambiguous descriptions.

Itoteki (intentional) and aimai (ambiguous).

この文献は、当時の風俗を克明に記述している。

This literature describes the customs of the time in painstaking detail.

Kokumei ni (painstakingly/minutely).

記述的言語学の視点から分析を行う。

Conduct an analysis from the perspective of descriptive linguistics.

Kijutsuteki (descriptive) as an academic term.

報告書の記述は、極めて簡潔かつ明瞭である。

The description in the report is extremely concise and clear.

Kiwamete (extremely) and meiryou (clear).

彼は、事件の核心を記述することに成功した。

He succeeded in describing the core of the incident.

Kakushin (core/heart of the matter).

その記述が、後の研究に多大な影響を与えた。

That description had a significant impact on later research.

Tadai na eikyou (huge influence).

言説における記述の妥当性を再考する。

Reconsider the validity of the description within the discourse.

Gensetsu (discourse) and datousei (validity).

この記述は、主観的なバイアスを排除している。

This description excludes subjective bias.

Shukanteki (subjective) and haijo (exclusion).

記述の断片から、失われた文明を再構築する。

Reconstruct a lost civilization from fragments of descriptions.

Danpen (fragment) and saikouchiku (reconstruction).

記述そのものが、対象の変容を促すことがある。

The description itself can sometimes prompt the transformation of the subject.

Hen-you (transformation) and unagasu (prompt).

緻密な記述によって、真実味が増している。

The meticulous description adds to the sense of reality.

Chimitsu (meticulous) and shinjitsumi (verisimilitude).

記述言語の限界が、思考の限界を規定する。

The limits of descriptive language define the limits of thought.

Kitei suru (to define/stipulate).

法文の記述には、一分の隙も許されない。

Not a single gap is allowed in the description of legal texts.

Ichibu no suki mo yurusarenai (no room for error).

記述の重層性が、テキストに深みを与えている。

The multi-layered nature of the description gives depth to the text.

Juusousei (multi-layered nature).

Common Collocations

詳細に記述する

簡潔に記述する

客観的に記述する

正確に記述する

記述式試験

記述内容

不正確な記述

～と記述されている

詳細な記述

事実を記述する

Common Phrases

記述の通り

— As described/As stated in the text.

記述の通り、手続きを進めてください。

以下の通り記述する

— To describe as follows.

詳細は以下の通り記述する。

記述を控える

— To refrain from describing (often for privacy).

個人情報の記述は控えてください。

記述が漏れる

— A description is missing or omitted.

重要な記述が漏れている。

記述を修正する

— To correct or revise a description.

誤った記述を修正した。

記述を求める

— To request a written description.

詳しい記述を求められた。

記述に基づき

— Based on the description.

記述に基づき判断する。

明確に記述する

— To describe clearly/explicitly.

ルールを明確に記述する。

記述が増える

— The amount of description increases.

後半になると記述が増える。

記述を終える

— To finish describing/writing.

論文の記述を終えた。

Often Confused With

記述する vs 記述 (kijutsu)

Description/Statement

記述する vs 技術 (gijutsu)

Technology/Skill (Sounds similar)

記述する vs 期日 (kijitsu)

Deadline/Fixed date (Sounds similar)

Idioms & Expressions

"筆舌に尽くしがたい"

— Indescribable in words (often used when something is too amazing or horrible to describe).

その美しさは筆舌に尽くしがたい。

Literary

"一筆啓上"

— A very brief letter or note (literally 'I state one stroke of the pen').

一筆啓上いたします。

Very Formal/Old

"筆が走る"

— To write quickly and smoothly (as if the brush/pen is running).

気分が乗って筆が走る。

Literary

"筆を置く"

— To stop writing or finish a literary work.

彼はその小説で筆を置いた。

Literary

"筆を執る"

— To take up the pen; to start writing seriously.

久しぶりに筆を執る。

Formal

"立て板に水"

— Speaking fluently and without pause (though not directly about writing, it contrasts with the slow nature of 'kijutsu').

彼女は立て板に水のごとく説明した。

Neutral

"言葉を濁す"

— To speak ambiguously to avoid a clear description/statement.

核心については言葉を濁した。

Neutral

"釘を刺す"

— To give a warning (often formally stated/described to prevent mistakes).

遅刻しないよう釘を刺した。

Neutral

"形に残す"

— To leave something in a tangible form (like a written description).

思い出を文章にして形に残す。

Neutral

"墨を引く"

— To cross out or erase a written description (old term).

誤字に墨を引く。

Archaic

Easily Confused

記述する vs 記載する

Both involve writing details.

'Kisai' is for listing/mentioning items in an official document; 'Kijutsu' is for describing in sentences.

住所を記載する (List address) vs. 状況を記述する (Describe situation).

記述する vs 描写する

Both mean 'to describe'.

'Byousha' is sensory/artistic; 'Kijutsu' is factual/objective.

美しさを描写する (Depict beauty) vs. データを記述する (Describe data).

記述する vs 記録する

Both involve keeping a record.

'Kiroku' is general (audio, video, text); 'Kijutsu' is specifically linguistic/written account.

タイムを記録する (Record time) vs. 経過を記述する (Describe progress).

記述する vs 述べる

Both mean 'to state'.

'Noberu' is often oral or a summary; 'Kijutsu' is usually written and detailed.

意見を述べる (State opinion) vs. 実験を記述する (Describe experiment).

記述する vs 記す

Both mean 'to write down'.

'Shirusu' is literary/personal; 'Kijutsu' is formal/academic.

名を記す (Write name) vs. 理論を記述する (Describe theory).

Sentence Patterns

～を記述する

事実を記述する。

～について記述する

仕事について記述する。

～と記述されている

本にそう記述されている。

詳細に～を記述する

詳細に状況を記述する。

～の記述に漏れがある

内容の記述に漏れがある。

～を客観的に記述する

出来事を客観的に記述する。

Business

～と記述させていただきます

報告書にそのように記述させていただきます。

Academic

～の記述的分析

データの記述的分析を行う。

Word Family

Nouns

記述 (kijutsu - description/statement)

記述者 (kijutsusha - describer/writer)

記述語 (kijutsugo - descriptive word)

Verbs

記述する (kijutsu suru - to describe)

Adjectives

記述的 (kijutsuteki - descriptive)

記す (shirusu)

述べる (noberu)

記録 (kiroku)

記載 (kisai)

記事 (kiji)

How to Use It

frequency

High in written/formal contexts; Low in casual speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 'kijutsu' for spoken descriptions. → Using 'setsumei' or 'hanasu'.
'Kijutsu' implies a written record. Using it for speech sounds overly stiff and unnatural.
Confusing 'kijutsu' with 'gijutsu'. → Kijutsu = Description; Gijutsu = Technology.
The sounds are similar, but the meanings are completely different. Check the kanji or context.
Using 'kijutsu' for artistic descriptions. → Using 'byousha'.
'Kijutsu' is for facts/data. 'Byousha' is for art, feelings, and sensory imagery.
Using 'ni' instead of 'wo' for the object. → ～を記述する。
'Kijutsu' is a transitive verb. The thing being described takes the particle 'wo'.
Using 'kijutsu' in casual text messages. → Using 'kaku'.
It's too formal for LINE or casual emails. Stick to simple verbs with friends.

Tips

Academic Power

Use this word in your university essays to instantly raise your formal register. It shows you know how to write like a scholar.

Passive Power

Master the form '～に記述されている' (is described in ~). It is the most common way you will see this word in the wild.

Detail Matters

Always try to pair it with 'shousai ni' (in detail). It's the most natural and common collocation.

Test Strategy

When you see '記述' on a Japanese test, prepare your pen for writing full sentences. Don't just write one word!

Stay Objective

Use 'kijutsu' for facts. If you add too much emotion, 'byousha' or 'kaku' is better.

Context Clues

If the text is a manual or a law, 'kijutsu' almost always means 'the specific wording used in the clause.'

Kanji Tip

The kanji for 'jutsu' (述) has the 'walking' radical. Think of it as 'walking through a story' as you write it down.

Job Interviews

If asked about your resume, say 'Koko ni kijutsu shita toori...' (As I described here...). It sounds very professional.

News Watch

Listen for this word during legal or political news segments. It's used when referring to official statements.

Conciseness

In business, 'kanketsu na kijutsu' (concise description) is highly valued. Aim for that in your own writing.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a **Ki**ng in **Jutsu** training writing a scroll. He is 'describing' his secret techniques in writing.

Visual Association

A fountain pen resting on a formal certificate or a legal document with many lines of text.

Word Web

Writing Facts Formal Report Exam Objective Detail Record

Challenge

Try to write one sentence describing your favorite hobby using 'kijutsu suru' instead of 'kaku'. Make it sound like a professional report!

Word Origin

Derived from Middle Chinese (Sino-Japanese). 'Ki' (記) comes from the character for 'to record/remember' and 'Jutsu' (述) from 'to follow a path/state/narrate'.

Original meaning: To record and state an account of events or items.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

None. This is a very neutral, formal term.

English speakers often use 'describe' for everything. In Japanese, 'kijutsu' is strictly for formal writing, whereas 'setsumei' is for explaining.

Kijutsu Gengogaku (Descriptive Linguistics) Kijutsu-shiki Shiken (Written Exams in Japan) Kijutsu Gengo (Description Languages in IT)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Academic Writing

先行研究を記述する
方法論を記述する
結果を客観的に記述する
詳細な記述を試みる

Legal/Contracts

条項を記述する
事実を記述する
不鮮明な記述
記述の解釈

IT/Programming

仕様を記述する
コードで記述する
記述言語
論理を記述する

Exams/Education

記述式問題
答えを記述する
理由を記述する
記述を埋める

Journalism

現状を記述する
事件を記述する
記述の信憑性
克明な記述

Conversation Starters

"このレポートの記述について、どう思いますか？ (What do you think about the description in this report?)"

"記述式とマークシート、どちらの試験が得意ですか？ (Which do you prefer, descriptive or multiple-choice exams?)"

"このマニュアルの記述は少し分かりにくいですね。 (The description in this manual is a bit hard to understand, isn't it?)"

"自分の強みをどう記述すればいいか迷っています。 (I'm wondering how to describe my strengths [on a form].)"

"歴史の記述において、客観性はどの程度重要だと思いますか？ (To what extent do you think objectivity is important in historical descriptions?)"

Journal Prompts

今日あった出来事を、できるだけ客観的に記述してください。 (Describe today's events as objectively as possible.)

あなたの将来の夢を、具体的なステップと共に記述してください。 (Describe your future dreams along with specific steps.)

最近読んだ本の面白いと思った部分を記述してください。 (Describe the parts of a book you read recently that you found interesting.)

今の社会問題を一つ選び、その現状を記述してください。 (Choose one current social issue and describe its current state.)

自分自身の性格を、長所と短所に分けて記述してください。 (Describe your own personality, dividing it into strengths and weaknesses.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is not recommended. 'Kijutsu suru' is very formal and sounds like you are reading a report. For casual talk, use 'setsumei suru' (explain) or 'hanasu' (talk about).

'Kaku' is the general word for 'to write.' 'Kijutsu' is a formal subset that means 'to describe or state in writing for a specific purpose,' like a report or exam.

Yes, in 99% of cases, it refers to written descriptions. If you are describing something orally, 'setsumei' or 'noberu' is much more natural.

It means 'descriptive style.' You have to write out your answers in sentences or essays rather than choosing from A, B, C, or D.

Technically yes, but 'byousha suru' (to depict) is much better. 'Kijutsu' sounds too scientific for a sunset.

'Kijutsu' (記述) is description. 'Gijutsu' (技術) is technology. They sound similar, so listen for the 'k' vs 'g' sound at the start.

You say 'hon ni kijutsu sarete iru' (本に記述されている). This uses the passive form.

It is both. 'Kijutsu' is the noun (description), and 'kijutsu suru' is the verb (to describe).

Yes! It is used to refer to 'describing' logic or settings in code, like 'kijutsu gengo' (description language).

'Shouryaku' (omission) is a good one, as it means leaving details out instead of writing them down.