Translation guide
A chalice is a special cup, often used in religious ceremonies. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 聖杯 (seihai), but other terms exist depending on context.
A cup used in Christian or other religious rituals, often ornate and symbolic.
The standard term for a chalice in Christian contexts, especially the Holy Grail or a communion cup.
The specific chalice used by Jesus at the Last Supper, sought in Arthurian legend.
Also used for the Holy Grail. Often appears in phrases like 聖杯伝説 (Holy Grail legend).
Used metaphorically to represent something precious, a vessel of experience, or a symbol of fate.
The English word 'chalice' is often translated as 聖杯, but in non-religious contexts, simply using 杯 (さかずき) or カップ may be more natural. Using 聖杯 for an ordinary fancy cup would sound odd.
聖杯 is the common term for chalice in both religious and legendary contexts. カリス is a technical term used mainly in liturgical or academic writing and may not be understood by all Japanese speakers.
司祭が聖杯を掲げた。
The priest raised the chalice.
Loanword from Latin 'calix', used in some Christian denominations or academic contexts.
カリスにはぶどう酒が注がれている。
Wine is poured into the chalice.
A generic term for a sake cup or ceremonial cup, sometimes used poetically for a chalice, but not specific to Christian contexts.
黄金の杯が祭壇に置かれた。
A golden chalice was placed on the altar.
騎士たちは聖杯を探し求めた。
The knights sought the Holy Grail.
Literally 'holy cup', a more descriptive phrase that can refer to the Holy Grail.
聖なる杯は永遠の命を与えると言われている。
The holy chalice is said to grant eternal life.
In poetic language, 杯 can symbolize a shared experience or destiny, similar to 'cup' in English.
人生の杯を飲み干す。
To drink the chalice of life to the dregs.
Idiom meaning 'to drink a bitter cup' or 'to have a bitter experience', using 杯 in a figurative sense.
彼は人生で何度も苦杯をなめてきた。
He has drunk from the chalice of bitterness many times in life.