How to Say ‘Without explaining beforehand’ in Japanese
先にご説明せず
saki ni go setsumei se zu
[sah-kee nee goh seh-TSOO-may seh zu]
💬 Usage Tip: せず is a formal way of saying しないで "without doing". The ご in front of 説明 "explanation" makes the speaker's own action sound humble and polite.
Phrase Breakdown
先
saki
[sah-kee]
ahead; first
A noun/adverb meaning ahead, before others, or first in order.
先に始めてください。
Please start first.
に
ni
[nee]
in; at; to
Marks the location where someone lives.
おおさかにすんでいます。
I live in Osaka.
ご
go
[goh]
polite prefix (adds respect)
Honorific prefix used to make a noun more polite. Common in neighbor-related phrases to sound considerate.
ご近所の方には、いつでも言ってくださいと伝えました。
I told the neighbors, “Please tell me anytime.”
説明
setsumei
[seh-TSOO-may]
explanation
Noun meaning an explanation; with する it means to explain.
道を説明します。
I'll explain the route.
せ
se
[seh]
do (negative stem)
Form of する used before ず to mean 'not doing'.
勉強せずに寝た。
I slept without studying.
ず
zu
[zu]
without
Used to express doing something without some action.
試着せずに買うのは難しい。
It's difficult to buy without trying on.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager