1.
outsider; layman; non-expert
A person who lacks expertise or knowledge in a particular field. Literally 'a man outside the gate,' suggesting someone who has not been initiated into a discipline.
私はその分野の門外漢です。
I'm a layman in that field.
門外漢にもわかりやすく説明してほしい。
I'd like you to explain it in a way even a non-expert can understand.
法律に関しては門外漢なので、専門家に相談したほうがいい。
Since I'm no expert on legal matters, it would be better to consult a specialist.
Literally "a person outside the gate" (門 gate + 外 outside + 漢 man/person). The image is of someone standing outside the gate of a school or discipline, unable to enter.
Often used with humility when disclaiming expertise. The speaker frequently refers to themselves as a 門外漢.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- ～の門外漢 (a layman in ~)
- 門外漢にもわかる (understandable even to a layman)
- 門外漢ながら (though I am no expert)