Japanese meaning of 支離滅裂

Reading:
しりめつれつ (shiri metsuretsu)

English Translation:

Incoherent. / Disorganized and inconsistent.

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:


A lack of logical connection or consistency, resulting in confusion, disorder, or chaos. This phrase is often used for arguments, plans, or stories that are difficult to understand due to poor structure.

Cultural Context:


Frequently used in media criticism, academic analysis, and everyday conversation to highlight poor organization or incoherence.

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• "Incoherent." / "Disorganized and inconsistent." = Used to describe something lacking logical flow or clarity.
• Especially applied to speech or writing.

Trap for English Speakers

Be careful not to translate literally as "broken and scattered"; "incoherent" is the natural English equivalent.

Example

Basic Example

彼の説明は支離滅裂だった。

His explanation was incoherent.


Applied Example

作戦会議は支離滅裂、誰も結論を出せなかった。

The strategy meeting was incoherent — no one could reach a decision.