言及する

• Reading: げんきゅうする
• Romaji: genkyuu suru
• Kanji breakdown: 言 (gen) — speech, word, say; 及 (kyuu) — reach, extend to, and
• Pronunciation: /ɡeɴ.kjɯː.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To refer to; to mention; to allude to. To bring up or touch upon a subject in speech or writing.

The verbal form of 言及, used to explicitly state the act of referring to something. Commonly appears in news, academic writing, and formal discussions. Typical constructions include ～に言及する (to refer to ~), 言及を避ける (to avoid referring to), and 具体的に言及する (to refer specifically). Carries a slightly more deliberate nuance than simply 話す or 述べる — it implies purposefully drawing attention to a topic.

Examples

1. 首相は記者会見で辞任の可能性に言及した。 The prime minister mentioned the possibility of resignation at the press conference.
2. 論文の中で先行研究に言及する必要がある。 It is necessary to refer to prior research in the paper.
3. 彼はその話題に言及するのを避けていた。 He was avoiding making any reference to that topic.

Usage Guide

Context: press conferences, academic papers, formal discussions

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 言 (gen, speech/word) + 及 (kyuu, reach/extend to) + する (to do). The verbalized form of 言及, meaning 'to do the act of referring to.'

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated