特筆

• Reading: とくひつ
• Romaji: tokuhitsu
• Kanji breakdown: 特 (toku) — special, particular; 筆 (hitsu/fude) — brush, writing, pen
• Pronunciation: /to.kɯ.çi.tsɯ/

Meaning

Special mention; noteworthy; deserving particular note. Used when something is so remarkable it warrants explicit highlighting above the rest.

A formal noun and suru-verb (特筆する, 特筆に値する — worthy of special mention) used primarily in written language — reviews, reports, and academic writing. 特筆すべき点 (points worth highlighting) is a set phrase. More emphatic than 注目 (noteworthy) and implies a deliberate editorial decision to single something out for recognition.

Examples

1. 今年度の業績の中で特筆すべきは、海外市場への進出成功だ。 The most noteworthy achievement of this fiscal year is the successful expansion into overseas markets.
2. 彼の演技は特筆に値するほど自然で説得力があった。 His acting was so natural and convincing that it deserves special mention.
3. 報告書の中で特筆されているのは、コスト削減の著しい改善だ。 What is particularly highlighted in the report is the remarkable improvement in cost reduction.

Usage Guide

Context: academic writing, reviews, business reports

Tone: emphatic

Origin & History

Compound of 特 (toku) — special, particular — and 筆 (hitsu) — brush, writing. Literally 'to write specially' — to take up the pen to highlight something above the rest.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional/Academic