言及

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

Meaning

Reference; allusion; mention. The act of touching upon or referring to a topic in speech or writing.

A noun and suru-verb meaning to refer to or mention something. Used when a speaker or writer brings up a topic, especially in formal or academic contexts. Common patterns include 言及する (to refer to/mention), 言及を避ける (to avoid mentioning), and 言及がある (there is a reference to). More formal than ふれる (to touch on) and often implies deliberate mention of a significant point.

Examples

1. 大臣はその問題について一切言及しなかった。 The minister made no mention whatsoever of that issue.
2. 報告書の中でその事件への言及がある。 There is a reference to that incident in the report.
3. 彼女はスピーチの中で環境問題に言及した。 She made reference to environmental issues in her speech.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, academic writing, journalism

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 言 (gen, speech/word) + 及 (kyuu, reach/extend to). Literally 'speech reaching to' — one's words extending to touch upon a particular subject.

Cultural Context

Era: Pre-modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated