本文

ほんぶん

text (of document), body (of letter)

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"本文" refers to the main text or body of a written document, such as a letter, report, or email. It excludes titles, headers, or footnotes and focuses on the core content.

Common Contexts

You will often see "本文" used in formal or academic settings, such as reports, official emails, or articles. It highlights the part of the text that contains the essential information.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 本文を読む (read the main text): used when instructing someone to focus on the main content.
  • 本文に書く (write in the main text): refers to placing information within the body of a document.
  • 本文の内容 (content of the main text): emphasizes what is contained in the main part.

Register and Nuance

"本文" is a formal term and is rarely used in casual conversation. It is common in written communication and academic or professional contexts.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "本文" with "文章" (sentence or writing) or "テキスト" (text in general). Remember, "本文" specifically means the main body of a document, not just any text or sentence.

Example Sentences

このれぽーとのほんぶんはみっつのぶぶんにわかれています。

The text of this report is divided into three parts.

めーるのほんぶんにじゅうようなじょうほうがかかれている。

Important information is written in the body of the email.

ほんぶんをよくよんでからしつもんにこたえてください。

Please read the main text carefully before answering the questions.