分明

• Pinyin: fēn míng
• Hanzi breakdown: 分 = 八 + 刀 (divide with knife); 明 = 日 + 月 (sun and moon, bright)

Meaning

Clearly; distinctly. As an adjective, clear-cut or obvious.

Emphasizes that something is unmistakably clear or evident. Often used to express certainty about observations or to indicate sharp distinctions. Can carry a tone of frustration when pointing out something that should be obvious.

Examples

1. 他分明知道真相却不肯说。 He clearly knows the truth, yet he refuses to say it.
2. 这件事的是非分明不容混淆。 Right and wrong in this matter are clear and must not be confused.
3. 天空中的星星分明可见。 The stars in the sky are clearly visible.

Usage Guide

Context: emphasis, observation, argumentation

Tone: assertive

Do Say

• 他分明在撒谎，眼神都躲闪。(He is clearly lying; his eyes are evasive.)
• 这两种方案优劣分明。(The advantages and disadvantages of these two plans are distinct.)

Don't Say

• 这个分明很好 — redundant; 分明 emphasizes clarity of observation, not simple positive judgments

Origin & History

分 (divide) + 明 (bright/clear)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal