記述する
To describe something by writing it down or explaining it in detail.
Explanation at your level:
Hello! Today we learn a new word: 記述する (kijutsu suru). This word means to write or tell about something. Imagine you have a favorite toy. You can kijutsu suru about it by telling your friend its name, its color, and why you like it. It's like telling a small story about something. You use this word when you want to explain something very clearly, step-by-step. It's a bit like drawing a picture with words so someone can see what you mean. We use it when we want to be very clear and give all the details!
Let's talk about 記述する (kijutsu suru). This verb means to describe something in detail, either by writing or speaking. Think about describing your house to someone who has never seen it. You would kijutsu suru by telling them about the number of rooms, the color of the walls, and maybe the garden. It’s more than just saying 'it's a house'; it's about giving specific information. You use this word when you need to provide a clear and complete picture of something. It's useful for explaining procedures, events, or objects when you want the listener or reader to understand everything.
We're looking at 記述する (kijutsu suru), which means to describe or give an account of something in a detailed manner. This verb is often used when you need to present information formally, such as in a report or an essay. For example, you might kijutsu suru the results of an experiment, detailing the steps you took and the observations you made. It implies a level of thoroughness that goes beyond a simple explanation. You'll often hear it in contexts where accuracy and completeness are important, like in news reporting or technical documentation. Using 記述する suggests you are providing a comprehensive and structured account of the subject matter.
The Japanese verb 記述する (kijutsu suru) translates to 'to describe,' 'to narrate,' or 'to give an account of,' but with a strong emphasis on detail and thoroughness. It's typically employed in more formal registers, such as academic writing, official reports, or legal documents. When you kijutsu suru something, you are systematically presenting facts, events, or characteristics in a structured way, leaving little room for ambiguity. Consider its use in scientific papers where researchers must precisely kijutsu suru their methods and findings. It differs from simpler verbs like 'explain' (説明する - setsumei suru) by implying a more comprehensive and often written record. Mastering 記述する involves understanding its formal tone and its application in contexts demanding precision.
記述する (kijutsu suru) is a formal verb signifying a detailed and systematic account, usually written. Its usage is prevalent in academic, technical, and official documentation where precision is paramount. Unlike more general terms for 'describing,' 記述する implies a structured presentation of facts, observations, or events, often following a logical progression. For instance, a historian might kijutsu suru the events leading up to a major conflict, ensuring all contributing factors are meticulously documented. The verb carries a connotation of objectivity and completeness, making it unsuitable for casual conversation but essential for formal reporting. Understanding 記述する involves recognizing its role in conveying complex information accurately and comprehensively within specialized discourse.
At the highest level, 記述する (kijutsu suru) represents the act of providing an exhaustive and meticulously structured exposition, typically in a written format. It transcends mere description, embodying a comprehensive rendering of a subject, phenomenon, or event, often with historical, scientific, or legal implications. The verb suggests a deliberate and thorough process of documentation, aiming for ultimate clarity and fidelity to the source material. Consider its application in legal statutes, where every detail must be precisely kijutsu suru to avoid misinterpretation, or in critical analyses where an author might kijutsu suru the intricate nuances of a literary work. Its formal register and emphasis on completeness make it a cornerstone of precise communication in specialized fields, reflecting a deep engagement with the subject matter and a commitment to its accurate representation.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Verb meaning 'to describe' or 'give a detailed account'.
- Implies thoroughness, accuracy, and often written form.
- Used mainly in formal, academic, or technical contexts.
- Distinct from simpler verbs like 'explain' (説明する) due to its emphasis on detail.
Hey there! Let's dive into the wonderful world of the Japanese verb 記述する (kijutsu suru). Simply put, it means 'to describe' or 'to give an account of' something. But it's more than just a quick mention; it implies a thorough and detailed explanation, often in writing. Think of it as carefully laying out all the facts, details, and events of a particular subject or situation so that someone else can understand it clearly. It's a verb you'll often encounter in more formal or academic contexts, where precision and completeness are key. When you kijutsu suru, you're not just skimming the surface; you're digging deep to provide a comprehensive picture.
Imagine you're a detective who needs to write a report about a crime scene. You wouldn't just say 'something happened.' You'd need to kijutsu suru – describe – every single detail: what you saw, what was out of place, who was involved, and in what order things occurred. That's the essence of this verb! It’s about presenting information in an organized and detailed manner, ensuring nothing important is left out. So, next time you need to explain something fully, remember the power of 記述する!
The word 記述 (kijutsu) itself is a fascinating blend of two kanji characters, each carrying its own weight. The first character, 記 (ki), means 'to record,' 'to write down,' or 'to remember.' It often appears in words related to writing, like 記事 (kiji - article) or 記録 (kiroku - record). It evokes the idea of making something permanent or capturing it for future reference.
The second character, 述 (jutsu), means 'to state,' 'to narrate,' or 'to express.' You see it in words like 叙述 (jojutsu - narration) or 演説 (enzetsu - speech). This character brings the element of communication and expression to the forefront. When you put 記 and 述 together, you get 記述, which literally suggests 'recording and stating' – a perfect foundation for the meaning 'to describe in detail.' The verb form, 記述する (kijutsu suru), simply adds the common verb-forming suffix 'suru' (to do). This compound nature, common in Japanese, allows for nuanced meanings to be built from simpler components. The concept of detailed recording and narration has been crucial throughout history for preserving knowledge, laws, and stories, making 記述 a verb with deep roots in the human need to document and communicate.
So, when exactly do we whip out 記述する (kijutsu suru)? This verb is generally used in more formal or academic settings. Think of writing reports, research papers, official documents, or even detailed historical accounts. It’s not typically used in casual everyday conversation unless you're specifically discussing the act of writing or reporting itself in a formal way.
Common collocations – words that often go together – include: 詳細を記述する (shousai o kijutsu suru), meaning 'to describe in detail,' which really emphasizes the thoroughness of the action. You might also see 事実を記述する (jijitsu o kijutsu suru), 'to describe the facts,' highlighting accuracy. In technical writing, you could encounter 現象を記述する (genshou o kijutsu suru), 'to describe a phenomenon.' The register is definitely on the more formal side of the spectrum. If you were just telling a friend about your weekend, you'd probably use a simpler verb like 説明する (setsumei suru - to explain) or 話す (hanasu - to talk). But if you were writing a formal summary of a scientific experiment's results, 記述する would be the perfect choice!
While 記述する (kijutsu suru) itself isn't typically part of many colorful idioms, the concept of detailed description and recording is woven into various expressions. It's more about the *act* of detailed description that relates to idiomatic usage.
- 筆舌に尽くしがたい (hitsuzetsu ni tsukushigatai): This literally means 'difficult to express in writing or speech.' It's used to describe something so beautiful, moving, or overwhelming that words (both written and spoken) simply cannot capture its essence. Example: The sunset over the ocean was 筆舌に尽くしがたい beauty.
- 千言万語 (sengen bango): Meaning 'a thousand words, ten thousand sentences,' this idiom refers to saying a great deal, often to express deep feelings or to persuade someone. While it implies a lot of talking/writing, it's about the quantity and emotional weight, not necessarily a precise description. Example: I tried to thank him with 千言万語, but felt it wasn't enough.
- 活写する (kassha suru): This verb means 'to describe vividly' or 'to portray graphically.' It's closely related to 記述する but emphasizes bringing something to life through descriptive language. Example: The author managed to 活写する the bustling city market.
- 描写する (byousha suru): Another close relative, meaning 'to depict' or 'to portray.' It's often used for artistic or literary descriptions. Example: The painting vividly 描写する the hardships of war.
- 事細かに記述する (kotokokani kijutsu suru): This phrase emphasizes describing something 'in minute detail.' It's a more emphatic version of the base verb. Example: The witness was asked to 事細かに記述する everything they remembered.
These expressions highlight how the core idea of detailed communication, whether it's capturing the ineffable or laying out every single fact, is a fundamental part of language.
Let's break down the grammar and sound of 記述する (kijutsu suru). As a verb, it conjugates like other suru-verbs, which are known for their flexibility. For example, the past tense is 記述しました (kijutsu shimashita), and the negative form is 記述しません (kijutsu shimasen).
Pronunciation-wise, 記述 (kijutsu) is pronounced roughly as 'kee-joo-tsoo'. The 'ki' is like the 'key' in English. The 'ju' is similar to the 'joo' in 'jewel,' but perhaps a bit shorter. The final 'tsu' sound is a bit tricky for English speakers; it's like the 'ts' in 'cats' but pronounced as a distinct syllable. Try to keep the syllables relatively even in length: ki-jut-su. There isn't a strong stress on any particular syllable in Japanese pronunciation like there is in English.
When it comes to rhyming, finding perfect rhymes in Japanese can be complex due to syllable structure. However, words ending in '-jutsu' might share a similar feel. For instance, 芸術 (geijutsu - art) or 技術 (gijutsu - skill/technology) share the '-jutsu' ending. Remember, Japanese pronunciation is generally flatter than English, with less emphasis on individual stressed syllables.
Fun Fact
The concept of detailed record-keeping was vital in ancient East Asian societies for administration, history, and scholarship, giving verbs like 記述する a long-standing importance.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'kee-JOO-tsoo', with a clear 'tsu' sound at the end.
Similar to British pronunciation, 'kee-JOO-tsoo', ensuring the 'tsu' is distinct.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'su' or 'tsu-u'.
- Adding unnecessary stress to syllables.
- Making the 'ju' sound too long or too short.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Requires understanding formal contexts and detailed descriptions.
Using it correctly requires careful attention to formality and detail.
Less common in spontaneous speech, more likely in prepared statements.
Can be missed if not listening for formal language or detailed explanations.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Suru-verb conjugation
記述する -> 記述します (polite), 記述した (plain past), 記述しない (plain negative).
Passive Voice (られる/れる)
その事実は広く記述されている (That fact is widely described).
Nominalization (こと/の)
詳細を記述することは難しい (Describing the details is difficult).
Examples by Level
この本は面白いです。内容を記述してください。
This book is interesting. Please describe the content.
Please describe (polite imperative form of 記述する).
私の犬を記述します。
I will describe my dog.
Will describe (future/volitional form).
地図を記述してください。
Please describe the map.
Please describe (polite imperative).
夢を記述するのは難しいです。
Describing a dream is difficult.
Describing (nominalized verb form).
この絵を記述してください。
Please describe this picture.
Please describe (polite imperative).
あなたの町を記述してください。
Please describe your town.
Please describe (polite imperative).
この料理を記述します。
I will describe this dish.
Will describe (future/volitional form).
出来事を記述してください。
Please describe the event.
Please describe (polite imperative).
事故の状況を詳しく記述しました。
I described the situation of the accident in detail.
Described (past tense).
その小説は、登場人物の感情を豊かに記述している。
That novel describes the characters' emotions richly.
Describes (present progressive/habitual form).
会議では、プロジェクトの進捗を記述する必要があった。
At the meeting, it was necessary to describe the project's progress.
Necessary to describe (past tense of necessity).
彼は旅行の経験を詳細に記述した手紙を書いた。
He wrote a letter detailing his travel experiences.
Detailed (past participle used adjectivally).
この報告書は、市場の動向を正確に記述している。
This report accurately describes market trends.
Describes (present tense, factual statement).
彼女は、子供時代の思い出を詩的に記述した。
She poetically described her childhood memories.
Described (past tense).
新しい製品の特徴を記述してください。
Please describe the features of the new product.
Please describe (polite imperative).
その映画は、現代社会の問題を鋭く記述している。
That movie sharply describes the problems of modern society.
Describes (present tense, commentary).
科学者は実験結果を論文に詳細に記述しました。
The scientists described the experimental results in detail in the paper.
Described (past tense, formal context).
この歴史書は、当時の社会状況を克明に記述している。
This history book vividly describes the social conditions of that era.
Describes (present tense, factual description).
彼は、事件の目撃証言をできる限り正確に記述するよう求められた。
He was asked to describe the eyewitness testimony of the incident as accurately as possible.
To describe (infinitive form, expressing purpose/request).
旅行記には、訪れた場所の風景が生き生きと記述されている。
The travelogue vividly describes the scenery of the places visited.
Is described (passive voice, present tense).
技術マニュアルでは、各部品の機能について具体的に記述する必要があります。
In the technical manual, it is necessary to describe the function of each part concretely.
To describe (infinitive form, expressing necessity).
彼女は、自身の経験を基に、困難を乗り越える方法を記述した。
Based on her own experiences, she described how to overcome difficulties.
Described (past tense, indicating a guide/method).
この絵画は、感情の機微を巧みに記述している。
This painting skillfully describes the subtleties of emotion.
Describes (present tense, artistic analysis).
警察は、容疑者の特徴を詳細に記述した。
The police described the suspect's features in detail.
Described (past tense, factual reporting).
その作家は、登場人物の心理描写を非常に巧みに記述することで知られている。
That author is known for very skillfully describing the psychological state of their characters.
Describing (gerund/nominalized form, object of 'known for').
報告書では、提案された解決策の実施手順を段階的に記述する必要がある。
In the report, it is necessary to describe the implementation steps of the proposed solution step-by-step.
To describe (infinitive, expressing necessity/requirement).
彼は、自身の研究における予期せぬ発見について、興奮を込めて記述した。
He described his unexpected findings in his research with excitement.
Described (past tense, conveying emotion).
このドキュメンタリーは、失われつつある文化遺産を記録し、記述している。
This documentary records and describes a disappearing cultural heritage.
Describes (present tense, function of the documentary).
裁判官は、証拠に基づいて事件の経緯を客観的に記述した。
The judge objectively described the course of events based on the evidence.
Described (past tense, emphasizing objectivity).
その詩は、自然の美しさを比喩を用いて豊かに記述している。
That poem richly describes the beauty of nature using metaphors.
Describes (present tense, literary analysis).
新薬の効果と副作用について、臨床試験の結果を基に記述してください。
Please describe the effects and side effects of the new drug based on the clinical trial results.
Please describe (polite imperative, formal request).
彼は、その都市の活気ある雰囲気を、五感を刺激するような言葉で記述した。
He described the vibrant atmosphere of the city with words that stimulated the five senses.
Described (past tense, emphasizing sensory detail).
この哲学論文は、存在論的概念の複雑な体系を緻密に記述している。
This philosophical treatise meticulously describes a complex system of ontological concepts.
Describes (present tense, academic context).
報告書作成にあたり、過去の類似事例を網羅的に記述することが求められた。
In preparing the report, it was required to comprehensively describe past similar cases.
To describe (infinitive, expressing requirement).
作家は、登場人物の内面葛藤を、読者が共感できるレベルまで深く記述することに成功した。
The author succeeded in describing the characters' inner conflicts to a level where readers could empathize.
Describing (gerund/nominalized form, object of 'succeeded in').
その批評家は、映画監督の独特な映像美学を、専門用語を駆使して詳細に記述した。
The critic described the film director's unique visual aesthetics in detail, utilizing specialized terminology.
Described (past tense, specialized analysis).
この生物学論文では、新種の微生物の形態学的特徴を正確に記述している。
This biological paper accurately describes the morphological characteristics of a new species of microorganism.
Describes (present tense, scientific reporting).
彼は、自身の芸術的インスピレーションの源泉について、詩的かつ哲学的な言葉で記述した。
He described the sources of his artistic inspiration in poetic and philosophical terms.
Described (past tense, abstract description).
都市計画の提案では、将来的な人口増加に対応するためのインフラ整備について具体的に記述することが求められる。
In urban planning proposals, it is required to specifically describe infrastructure development to accommodate future population growth.
To describe (infinitive, expressing requirement).
その歴史家は、革命前夜の社会不安を、当時の手紙や日記を引用しながら克明に記述した。
The historian vividly described the social unrest on the eve of the revolution, citing contemporary letters and diaries.
Described (past tense, historical methodology).
その法学論文は、現代における契約法の複雑な進化の軌跡を、判例を丹念に追跡しながら記述している。
That legal treatise describes the complex evolutionary trajectory of contract law in the modern era, meticulously tracing case law.
Describes (present tense, advanced legal analysis).
彼は、人間の意識の根源的な性質について、既存のパラダイムを超える新たな枠組みを用いて記述を試みた。
He attempted to describe the fundamental nature of human consciousness using a novel framework that transcends existing paradigms.
To describe (infinitive, expressing attempt).
その文学批評は、ポストモダニズム文学における自己言及性の多層的な構造を、理論的厳密さをもって記述している。
That literary criticism describes the multi-layered structure of self-referentiality in postmodern literature with theoretical rigor.
Describes (present tense, highly academic literary criticism).
この経済学の論文では、グローバル化が途上国の経済発展に与える影響を、計量経済学的手法を駆使して記述している。
This economics paper describes the impact of globalization on the economic development of developing countries, utilizing econometric methods.
Describes (present tense, advanced economic analysis).
彼女は、失われた古代文明の社会構造と宗教的実践について、考古学的証拠と文献学的推論を統合し、包括的に記述した。
She comprehensively described the social structure and religious practices of a lost ancient civilization, integrating archaeological evidence and philological inference.
Described (past tense, synthesis of multiple disciplines).
その芸術理論家は、現代美術における脱構築主義の多様な現れ方を、詳細な事例分析を通じて記述した。
The art theorist described the diverse manifestations of deconstructionism in contemporary art through detailed case studies.
Described (past tense, specialized art theory).
この研究は、量子力学における観測問題の哲学的含意を、厳密な論証によって記述することを目的としている。
This research aims to describe the philosophical implications of the measurement problem in quantum mechanics through rigorous argumentation.
To describe (infinitive, expressing the research aim).
彼は、人間の感情の複雑なスペクトルを、心理学、哲学、文学からの洞察を織り交ぜて記述した。
He described the complex spectrum of human emotion, weaving insights from psychology, philosophy, and literature.
Described (past tense, interdisciplinary synthesis).
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"筆舌に尽くしがたい"
Too beautiful/overwhelming to be described in words.
その絶景は筆舌に尽くしがたいほどだった。
literary/formal"千言万語"
A great many words; saying a lot.
感謝の気持ちを千言万語で伝えた。
neutral/formal"活写する"
To describe vividly; to portray graphically.
作家は都会の喧騒を活写した。
literary/formal"描写する"
To depict; to portray (often used in art/literature).
その絵は悲しみをよく描写している。
neutral/formal"事細かに記述する"
To describe in minute detail.
彼は事件の経緯を事細かに記述した。
formal"言葉を尽くす"
To say everything one can; to exhaust all possible words (often to persuade or explain).
彼は説得するために言葉を尽くした。
neutralEasily Confused
Both involve writing/recording information.
記述する focuses on the narrative or descriptive content and detail. 記載する focuses on the act of recording or listing information, often in a structured format like a list, table, or official document.
報告書に事実を<strong>記述する</strong> (describe the facts in the report). 住所録に名前を<strong>記載する</strong> (record the name in the address book).
Both mean 'to explain' or 'to describe'.
説明する is a general term for making something clear. 記述する implies a more thorough, detailed, and often written account, focusing on presenting facts or events systematically.
この図について<strong>説明してください</strong> (Please explain this diagram - could be brief). 事件の経緯を<strong>記述してください</strong> (Please describe the course of the incident - implies detail).
Both involve describing something.
描写する often carries an artistic or literary nuance, focusing on vivid portrayal and imagery. 記述する is generally more factual, objective, and systematic.
作家は情景を美しく<strong>描写した</strong> (The author beautifully depicted the scene). 科学者は実験結果を客観的に<strong>記述した</strong> (The scientist objectively described the experimental results).
Both can mean 'to state' or 'to express'.
述べる is often used for stating opinions, views, or brief remarks. 記述する implies a more comprehensive and detailed account, usually written.
会議で意見を<strong>述べた</strong> (I stated my opinion at the meeting). 彼の意見の根拠を<strong>記述した</strong> (He described the basis for his opinion - implying detail).
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + 記述する
彼は事件の経緯を詳細に記述した。
Adverb + 記述する
事実を客観的に記述することが重要だ。
Noun + として記述する
この文書では、彼を証人として記述している。
Verb (dictionary form) + ことを記述する
報告書は、そのプロセスを完了することを記述していた。
Noun + のように記述する
彼は、まるで物語のようにその出来事を記述した。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
記述する has a formal and detailed connotation, unsuitable for everyday chat.
While related, 記述する is about the content and detail of the description, while 記載する is about the act of putting it down, often in a list or official record.
The core meaning of 記述する implies completeness and precision, not just a brief overview.
An incorrect 'tsu' can make the word sound unclear or foreign.
記述する is factual and systematic, whereas 描写する focuses more on imagery and artistic expression.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a grand library (the 'Ki' library). Inside, a judge ('Ju') is meticulously writing down every detail of a case. He then 'tells' ('Tsu') the verdict. Ki-Ju-Tsu = 記述する.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 記述する in formal presentations, news reports about events, or when someone is explaining a technical process step-by-step. Notice how it's often paired with words like 'detail' (詳細) or 'facts' (事実).
Cultural Insight
In cultures that value meticulous record-keeping and historical accuracy (like many East Asian societies), verbs like 記述する are fundamental tools for preserving knowledge and ensuring clarity in official matters.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember it's a 'suru' verb! This means it conjugates easily: 記述します (kijutsu shimasu - polite present), 記述しました (kijutsu shimashita - polite past), 記述しない (kijutsu shinai - plain negative).
Say It Right
Focus on the 'tsu' sound at the end. It's not 'soo' or 'choo'. Practice it distinctly: ki-ju-tsu. Listen to native speakers and mimic them.
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid using 記述する in casual chats! It sounds overly formal and stiff. Stick to simpler verbs like 説明する unless the context is clearly formal or requires deep detail.
Did You Know?
The kanji 記 (ki) also appears in 記者 (kisha - reporter), highlighting the connection between recording information and the act of reporting.
Study Smart
When you encounter 記述する, try to find examples in news articles or Wikipedia entries. See *what* is being described and *how* detailed the description is. This context is key!
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of a **key** (**ki**) detail you need to **judge** (**ju**) the situation, and then **tell** (**tsu**) everyone about it. Key-judge-tell = Kijutsu.
Visual Association
Imagine a historian meticulously writing in a large, ancient book, carefully describing every event with a quill pen. The book is labeled 'KNOWLEDGE'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try describing your morning routine in detail, as if you were writing a report for a 'Day in the Life' project.
Word Origin
Sino-Japanese (Kanji compound)
Original meaning: The characters combine 'to record' (記) and 'to state/narrate' (述), literally meaning 'to record and state'.
Cultural Context
While the word itself is neutral, the *content* being described can be sensitive. Care must be taken to describe sensitive topics accurately and respectfully, especially in official or public contexts.
In English-speaking cultures, detailed accounts are valued in formal writing (reports, academic papers) and journalism. The emphasis is often on clarity, accuracy, and providing sufficient evidence or context.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Writing a formal report (e.g., business, academic)
- 調査結果を記述する (to describe the survey results)
- 提案内容を記述する (to describe the proposal's content)
- 問題点を記述する (to describe the problem points)
Academic research
- 実験方法を記述する (to describe the experimental method)
- 観察結果を記述する (to describe the observation results)
- 理論的背景を記述する (to describe the theoretical background)
Technical documentation
- 製品仕様を記述する (to describe product specifications)
- 操作手順を記述する (to describe the operating procedure)
- 機能について記述する (to describe the functions)
Historical or journalistic accounts
- 事件の経緯を記述する (to describe the course of the incident)
- 当時の社会状況を記述する (to describe the social conditions of the time)
- 出来事を克明に記述する (to describe events vividly/in detail)
Conversation Starters
"How would you describe the most interesting place you've ever visited in detail?"
"If you were writing a report about your day, what key events would you need to describe?"
"Can you describe the process of learning Japanese in detail?"
"Imagine you're explaining a complex game. What details would you need to describe for someone to understand?"
"How does the way we describe things change depending on whether it's a formal report or a casual chat?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a memorable event from your childhood in as much detail as possible.
Write a detailed description of your favorite room in your house, focusing on sensory details.
Describe the process of achieving a goal you've worked hard for. What were the steps involved?
Imagine you are a historian. Describe a significant event from the past as if you were writing it for a textbook.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions記述する emphasizes providing a detailed, often written, account of facts or events. 説明する is a broader term for explaining or clarifying something, which can be simpler or less detailed than 記述する.
Yes, but typically in a more analytical or formal way, like describing the psychological state of a character in literature (e.g., 心理を記述する). For casual expression of feelings, other verbs are more common.
Less frequently than in writing. It's more common in formal speeches, presentations, or when discussing the act of writing itself. In everyday conversation, simpler verbs are preferred.
'Suru' is a common Japanese verb meaning 'to do.' When attached to a noun like 記述 (description/account), it turns it into a verb: 'to do a description' or 'to describe'.
It implies a significant level of detail and thoroughness. It's not just a brief overview but aims to provide a comprehensive picture, often including facts, steps, or characteristics.
Yes, for general explanations, 説明する (setsumei suru) is much more common. For telling stories or recounting events casually, 話す (hanasu) or 語る (kataru) might be used.
You'll find it frequently in research papers, technical manuals, official reports, historical documents, legal texts, and sometimes in detailed news reporting.
Try writing short reports on topics you know well, like describing a hobby, a process, or an event in detail. Focus on including specific facts and steps.
Test Yourself
この物語のあらすじを ______ してください。
The sentence asks to 'describe the synopsis of this story,' which requires a detailed account, fitting 記述する.
Which of the following best fits the meaning of 記述する?
記述する implies a detailed and thorough description or account.
記述する is typically used for very casual, everyday conversations.
記述する is generally used in formal or academic contexts, not casual conversation.
Word
Meaning
These are common phrases that pair 記述する with specific objects to describe.
The correct order forms the sentence '事件の詳細を記述した' (Described the details of the incident).
科学者は、新しい発見を論文に ______ することを約束した。
Scientists promise to 'describe' their new findings in a paper, fitting the context of formal reporting.
Which verb is most similar in meaning to 記述する but emphasizes artistic portrayal?
描写する (byousha suru) means to depict or portray, often artistically, while 記述する is more about factual, detailed accounts.
The verb 記述する can be used to describe one's personal feelings in a casual diary entry.
While a diary might contain descriptions, 記述する implies a level of formality and detail typically found in reports or academic writing, making it less common for casual personal entries.
その法廷記録は、事件の全容を ______ している。
Court records 'describe' the full picture of an incident, requiring detail and accuracy.
The author's novel ______ the complex socio-political landscape of the era with remarkable precision.
The phrase 'complex socio-political landscape... with remarkable precision' strongly suggests the use of 記述する.
Score: /10
Summary
Use 記述する when you need to provide a comprehensive and precise account, especially in writing.
- Verb meaning 'to describe' or 'give a detailed account'.
- Implies thoroughness, accuracy, and often written form.
- Used mainly in formal, academic, or technical contexts.
- Distinct from simpler verbs like 'explain' (説明する) due to its emphasis on detail.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a grand library (the 'Ki' library). Inside, a judge ('Ju') is meticulously writing down every detail of a case. He then 'tells' ('Tsu') the verdict. Ki-Ju-Tsu = 記述する.
When Native Speakers Use It
Listen for 記述する in formal presentations, news reports about events, or when someone is explaining a technical process step-by-step. Notice how it's often paired with words like 'detail' (詳細) or 'facts' (事実).
Cultural Insight
In cultures that value meticulous record-keeping and historical accuracy (like many East Asian societies), verbs like 記述する are fundamental tools for preserving knowledge and ensuring clarity in official matters.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember it's a 'suru' verb! This means it conjugates easily: 記述します (kijutsu shimasu - polite present), 記述しました (kijutsu shimashita - polite past), 記述しない (kijutsu shinai - plain negative).
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More academic words
絶対的
B2Absolute; not qualified or diminished in any way; total.
絶対的に
B1In a complete, unconditional, or conclusive manner; absolutely.
抽象的だ
B1Abstract; existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
抽象
B2Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence. It refers to generalizing or extracting the essence of something away from specific details.
抽象的に
B1In an abstract or theoretical manner.
学術的な
B1Academic, scholarly; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的だ
B1Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的
B2Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術
B1Academia; scholarship; relating to scholarly pursuits.
学力
B1Academic ability; a person's level of knowledge and skill in academic subjects.
