zin2 ming4闡明阐明
Jyutpingzin2 ming4
Yalejín mìhng
Definition
To explain clearly; to elucidate.
writtencommunication
How it's used
Reserved for formal or professional contexts, this term is rarely used in casual daily conversation. It carries a sense of intellectual rigor and is typically found in written reports, official speeches, or academic discussions. Use 講清楚 or 解釋 instead for everyday situations to avoid sounding overly stiff or pretentious.
Examples
He clarified his position at the meeting.
Can you explain this concept a bit?
Related words
Common phrases
to clarify one's position
to elucidate a point of view
Common mistake
Learners often use this word in casual settings where it sounds unnatural, as if one were giving a formal lecture. Stick to simpler verbs like 解釋 or 講明 when talking to friends or family.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
