Translation guide
The English verb 'bequeath' refers to leaving property or assets to someone through a will, or more broadly, passing down something intangible like knowledge or traditions. In Japanese, the concept is expressed differently depending on whether it's a legal transfer, a personal gift, or a metaphorical legacy.
To leave property or money to someone in a will
This is the most direct and natural way to say 'bequeath' in a legal context. It literally means 'to transfer (something) by will.' The object being bequeathed is marked with を.
He bequeathed his entire estate to his son in his will.
A formal legal term meaning 'to bequeath' or 'to give by will.' Commonly used in legal documents and discussions about inheritance.
She bequeathed the painting to the museum.
Literally 'to leave (something) by will.' A slightly softer alternative to 譲る, often used when the focus is on the act of leaving something behind.
My grandfather bequeathed me this watch in his will.
To hand down knowledge, traditions, values, etc. to future generations
A versatile verb meaning 'to convey' or 'to pass on.' Used for intangible things like knowledge, culture, or values. Not limited to wills.
We must bequeath this tradition to the next generation.
Means 'to leave behind.' Often used for legacies, both tangible and intangible. Implies something remains after one is gone.
Causative form of 受け継ぐ (to inherit), meaning 'to make someone inherit' or 'to pass down.' Emphasizes the continuation across generations.
譲る (yuzuru) is a general verb for transferring ownership, and when combined with 遺言で (by will), it clearly means 'bequeath.' 遺贈する (izō suru) is a specific legal term used in formal contexts like wills and inheritance law. For everyday conversation about leaving something in a will, 遺言で譲る is more natural.
In daily conversation, 'yuigon de yuzuru' is used; in legal documents, 'izō suru' is used.
There is no single Japanese verb that perfectly matches 'bequeath' in all contexts. Using a dictionary form like 遺贈する in casual speech may sound overly formal or legalistic. Choose the expression based on the context and what is being passed on.
彼は後世に偉大な業績を残した。
He bequeathed a great legacy to posterity.
He bequeathed his values to his children.