How to say "describe" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 描くえがくgodan verb, transitive verbCovers 'describe' in the sense of depicting something vividly, whether in a drawing or in words; use it when you paint a picture with language, as in describing a scene in rich detail.
- 写すうつすgodan verb, transitive verbIn its core sense this word means to copy, trace or photograph something; its 'describe' sense is secondary — portraying or expressing — so it is seldom the word you want for plain 'describe'.
- 記すしるすgodan verb, transitive verbCovers 'describe' as setting something down in writing: to note, record or give a written account of events or facts, as in a report, diary or historical record.
- 映し出すうつしだすgodan verb, transitive verbCovers 'describe' as portraying something visually, projecting it into view the way a film or image does; it suits depicting scenes on screen rather than giving a verbal description.
- 話すはなすgodan verb, transitive verbCovers 'describe' in speech: telling, explaining or narrating something aloud, as when you describe an experience to a friend; it fits spoken rather than written description.
For 'describe', use 「描く」 for vivid depiction in words or images, 「記す」 for written accounts, 「映し出す」 for visual portrayal on screen, and 「話す」 for spoken telling, while 「写す」 chiefly means to copy.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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