1.
general outline; overview; survey
A broad, general explanation or summary of a topic, covering the main points without going into great detail. Often used as a book title or section heading.
日本文学概説を読んだ。
I read an overview of Japanese literature.
まず概説から始めましょう。
Let's start with the overview.
この授業では経済学の概説を行い、基本的な理論を紹介します。
In this class, we will provide an overview of economics and introduce the basic theories.
USAGE:
概説 is commonly used in academic contexts as a book or chapter title meaning "Introduction to" or "Survey of." The verb form 概説する means to give a general explanation.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 概説する (to give an overview)
- 概説書 (an introductory book, survey text)
- 〜概説 (as a title: "Survey of ~")
RELATED WORDS:
- 概要: outline, summary
- 概論: general introduction (as a course or book title)
- 総説: review article, general review
- 入門: introduction (beginner level)