Translation guide
The concept of making amends for a wrong or sin, often with religious or moral weight. In Japanese, this can be expressed through words for compensation, apology, or religious redemption.
Expressing the act of compensating for a mistake or sin, often in a moral or personal context.
The most common and direct term for atonement, implying compensation or reparation for a wrong. Used in both personal and formal contexts.
He made atonement for his sins.
As atonement, she started volunteering.
Literally 'sin-destroying', this implies atonement through good deeds or suffering to cancel out one's sins. Often used in religious or dramatic contexts.
He made a donation as atonement for his sins.
A formal, often religious term for redemption or atonement, particularly in Christian contexts. Less common in everyday speech.
I believe in Christ's atonement.
Expressing atonement through a sincere apology and desire to make things right.
Specifically referring to the Christian doctrine of Christ's atonement for humanity's sins.
Focusing on the practical side of atonement: doing something to compensate for a wrong.
償い (tsugunai) is the general term for atonement or compensation in both secular and religious contexts. 贖罪 (shokuzai) is more formal and specifically religious, often used in Christian theology. For everyday apologies and making amends, 償い or 埋め合わせ are more natural.
Directly translating 'atonement' as 贖罪 in casual conversation may sound overly dramatic or religious. Use 償い or 埋め合わせ unless the context is explicitly religious.
He apologized from the heart, seeking atonement.
キリストの贖罪を信じる。
I believe in Christ's atonement.
彼は自分の過ちを償うために努力した。
He worked hard to atone for his mistake.