演説

• Reading: えんぜつ
• Romaji: enzetsu
• Kanji breakdown: 演 (en) — perform, present; 説 (zetsu) — explain, preach
• Pronunciation: /eɴ.ze.tsɯ/

Meaning

Speech; address. A formal public talk delivered to an audience.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (演説する). Used specifically for formal public speeches — political speeches, graduation addresses, and rally speeches. More formal and public than スピーチ (casual speech) or 発表 (presentation). 演説会 (enzetsukai) is a speech meeting or rally.

Examples

1. 市長が駅前で演説をしていた。 The mayor was giving a speech in front of the train station.
2. 彼の演説は聴衆を感動させた。 His speech moved the audience deeply.
3. 選挙の前に各候補者が演説する。 Each candidate gives a speech before the election.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, public events, ceremonies

Tone: formal

Origin & History

Compound of 演 (en, to perform/present) and 説 (zetsu, to explain/preach). Together, 'performing an explanation' — presenting ideas formally to persuade or inform an audience.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal