顕著

• Reading: けんちょ
• Romaji: kencho
• Kanji breakdown: 顕 (ken) — visible, manifest, reveal; 著 (cho) — notable, marked, author
• Pronunciation: /ke.ɴ.tɕo/

Meaning

Remarkable; striking; obvious. Describes something that stands out prominently and cannot be overlooked.

A na-adjective and noun used to describe phenomena, trends, or results that are clearly noticeable and significant. Frequently appears in academic writing, news reports, and data analysis. Common collocations include 顕著な傾向 (remarkable trend), 顕著な成果 (notable results), and 顕著に表れる (to appear prominently). More formal than 目立つ (to stand out).

Examples

1. 都市部での人口減少が顕著になってきた。 Population decline in urban areas has become increasingly pronounced.
2. 新しい政策の効果が顕著に表れている。 The effects of the new policy are showing up clearly.
3. 彼の研究は顕著な成果を上げたと評価された。 His research was recognized for producing remarkable results.

Usage Guide

Context: academic writing, news, data analysis, research

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 顕 (ken, visible/manifest) + 著 (cho, notable/marked). Literally 'visibly notable,' combining two characters that both emphasise prominence and conspicuousness.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional