銘文

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 銘文 is read as めいぶん and means an inscription carved on a monument or object to record a name, origin, dedication, or commemorative message.
• Basic usage: Use 石碑の銘文 for an inscription on a monument and 短い銘文がある for noting that an object bears a short inscription.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Difference between 銘文 and 文章
  • The former is an identifying or commemorative text inscribed on an object, whereas the latter is a general piece of writing with no such material restriction.