Translation and Meaning of: 明白 - akarasama

If you've ever come across the Japanese word 明白[あからさま] and found yourself curious about its meaning, origin, or how to use it in everyday life, this article is for you. Here, we will explore the etymology of this expression, its usage in everyday Japanese, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. Additionally, since Suki Nihongo is the largest online Japanese dictionary, you will also learn the correct writing and ready-made phrases to include in your Anki or other spaced repetition systems. Let's get straight to the point!

The term あからさま carries an interesting weight: it not only means "obvious" or "evident," but also conveys an idea of almost physical transparency, as if something is exposed to the sunlight. Does this nuance reflect in its kanji? And why does this word appear so often in dramas and mangas? Find out below.

Etymology and Origin of 明白 [あからさま]

The word 明白 is composed of two kanjis: 明 (mei, "light" or "clear") and 白 (haku, "white" or "pure"). Together, they create a nearly poetic image of something as clear as daylight, so obvious that it cannot be denied. Interestingly, the reading あからさま is an example of kun'yomi (Japanese reading), while the form めいはく (meihaku) follows the on'yomi (Chinese reading).

But where did this expression come from? Some linguists believe that あからさま originated in the Edo period, derived from あから, an old word for "bright red." Imagine something so evident that it seems to jump out at you like an intense color — this may have been the inspiration behind the term. Today, it is used in both formal language and everyday conversation, especially when one wants to emphasize that something is undeniable.

Lies in Japanese Everyday Life

In Japan, あからさま is often used to describe situations where someone acts without disguises. For example, if a coworker criticizes you directly, without beating around the bush, a Japanese person might comment: 「あからさまに言うね」 ("You're being quite direct, huh?"). This straightforwardness can be positive or negative, depending on the context.

Another common use appears in police dramas, where detectives say things like 「彼の嘘はあからさまだ」 ("His lie is obvious"). The word also appears in song lyrics and manga to convey a truth that cannot be hidden. Want a challenge? Try to identify あからさま in the next Japanese series you watch — it appears more than you might think!

Tips for Memorizing and Curiosities

To never forget あからさま, associate the kanjis with a mental image: something so "clear (明) and white (白)" that it cannot go unnoticed. Another technique is to create a funny sentence, like 「あからさまに寝てる同僚」 ("the colleague who is obviously sleeping"), to firmly establish the meaning in a practical way.

A little-known fact is that あからさま is sometimes used ironically. Someone might say 「あからさまに避けてるよね」 ("You're avoiding me quite obviously, aren't you?") with a sarcastic smile. This dual meaning makes the word even richer in real use. So, are you ready to use 明白[あからさま] like a native?

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 明確 (Meikaku) - Clarity and precision in information or understanding.
• 明白 (Meihaku) - Clarity that indicates easy understanding, without ambiguity.
• 明瞭 (Meiryou) - Clarity that suggests sharpness in expression or understanding.
• 明晰 (Meiseki) - Clarity that emphasizes transparency and the evidence of thought.
• 明快 (Meikai) - Clarity combined with agility, as in a presentation or explanation.
• 明朗 (Meirou) - Clarity that is cheerful and optimistic, often used in more social contexts.