Entry
はっきり
hakkiri
Describes a state where something is clear, distinct, and unmistakable to the senses or the mind.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
Hakkiri is a versatile word used to express clarity across various domains: visual sharpness, auditory clearness, direct communication, and certainty in thoughts or decisions.
- Clarity of physical senses (sight and sound)
- Clarity of expression and attitude
- Cognitive certainty and memory
Sense Map
Visual and Auditory Clarity
Used when boundaries are sharp or sounds are crisp and easy to distinguish.
富士山がはっきり見える。
Directness and Communication
Used when stating opinions or answers without hesitation or ambiguity.
自分の意見をはっきり言う。
Cognitive Certainty
Used for vivid memories or clear, logical reasons.
昔のことをはっきり覚えている。
Usage Note
How to Use
はっきりする
Used for things becoming clear, such as the weather or the results of an investigation.
はっきりしている
Describes a current state of being clear, certain, or obvious.
はっきり（と）+ verb
Acts as an adverb to describe how an action (like seeing or speaking) is performed.
はっきりした + noun
Used to modify nouns that have clear characteristics or definite properties.
How to Use
Common Phrases
はっきり見える
to see clearly
はっきり言う
to speak up clearly
はっきり覚えている
to remember vividly
はっきり断る
to refuse flatly
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Vision | Neutral | Describes objects that are easy to see without obstruction. |
| Communication | Positive | Being clear in speech is usually seen as a positive trait in professional environments. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
くっきり くっきり / similar | Used specifically for visual clarity where an object stands out sharply against its background. | Hakkiri is broader (includes sound/mind), while kukkiri is strictly visual and emphasizes contrast. | 形がくっきり見える。 |
きっぱり きっぱり / similar | Used for a firm, decisive attitude, especially when cutting off a relationship or making a final refusal. | Hakkiri emphasizes the clarity of information, while kippari emphasizes the strength of will. | きっぱり断る。 |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using hakkiri to describe light, refreshing food.
Use assari (あっさり) for light flavors or simple seasonings.
Using hakkiri when you feel refreshed after a workout.
Use sukkiri (すっきり) for feeling refreshed or relieved.
Examples
Examples
眼鏡をかけると、遠くの文字もはっきり見える。
めがねをかけると、とおくのもじもはっきりみえる。
When I put on my glasses, even distant characters can be seen clearly.
VisualExplains visual sharpness.
大切な会議なので、自分の意見をはっきり伝えた。
たいせつなかいぎなので、じぶんのいけんをはっきりつたえた。
Since it was an important meeting, I expressed my opinion clearly.
LiteralDescribes an unambiguous way of speaking.
子供の頃の思い出は、今でもはっきり覚えている。
こどものころのおもいでは、いままでもはっきりおぼえている。
I still remember my childhood memories clearly even now.
LiteralExplains the clarity of memory in the mind.
雨が止んで、空がはっきりしてきた。
あめがやんで、そらがはっきりしてきた。
The rain has stopped and the sky has become clear.
VisualDescribes the weather clearing up.
どちらのプランにするか、はっきり決めてください。
どちらのぷらんにするか、はっきりきめてください。
Please decide clearly which plan you will go with.
FigurativeDescribes decisiveness in making a choice.
Similar Words
くっきり
kukkiri
Focuses on sharp visual contrast.
Questions
What is the difference between hakkiri and kukkiri?
Hakkiri is used for general clarity (sight, sound, thoughts), while kukkiri is specialized for visual contrast and relief.
Is it rude to speak hakkiri in Japan?
It depends on the context. In business, it is necessary to be clear (hakkiri), but in delicate social situations, being too direct might be perceived as blunt.
Can I use hakkiri for weather?
Yes. Tenki ga hakkiri shinai means the weather is unsettled or cloudy.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 1010150
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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