断言

だんげん

assertion, declaration, affirmation

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 断言 (だんげん) means to assert or declare something firmly and confidently. It is often used when someone states their opinion or fact with strong conviction, leaving little room for doubt.

Common Contexts

断言 is frequently used in formal or serious contexts, such as academic discussions, expert opinions, or legal statements. It conveys a strong sense of certainty.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 断言する: to assert or declare
  • 〜と断言する: to assert that ~
  • はっきり断言する: to assert clearly

These patterns emphasize the speaker's confidence in their statement.

Nuances and Tips

Using 断言 implies a high level of confidence and sometimes can sound strong or even confrontational. It is less common in casual conversation. Learners should avoid using it lightly to prevent sounding overly forceful.

Common Mistake

Confusing 断言 with 言う (to say) or 主張する (to claim). 断言 is stronger and more formal than these, so use it when you want to emphasize certainty.

Example Sentences

かれはそのじけんにかんしてだんげんした。

He asserted regarding that incident.

せんもんかはこのりろんがただしいとだんげんしている。

The expert is asserting that this theory is correct.

かのじょはじぶんのいけんをはっきりだんげんした。

She clearly asserted her opinion.