発言

• Reading: はつげん
• Romaji: hatsugen
• Kanji breakdown: 発 (hatsu) — emit, send out, departure; 言 (gen/gon) — word, speech, say
• Pronunciation: /ha.tsɯ.geɴ/

Meaning

Statement; remark; utterance. A spoken comment, especially in a formal or public setting.

A noun and suru-verb referring to the act of speaking up or making a remark, particularly in meetings, discussions, or public contexts. More formal than simply 'speaking' — it implies a deliberate contribution to a conversation or debate. Often used with する (to make a statement) or in the pattern 発言を求める (request permission to speak).

Examples

1. 会議中に彼の発言が注目を集めた。 His remarks attracted attention during the meeting.
2. 不適切な発言をして批判された。 He was criticized for making an inappropriate comment.
3. 発言したい方は手を挙げてください。 Please raise your hand if you'd like to speak.

Usage Guide

Context: meetings, politics, media

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 発 (hatsu, emit/send out) + 言 (gen, word/speech). Literally 'to emit words' — sending one's words out into a public space.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal