Translation guide
A poem or song expressing sorrow for someone who has died. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the word 哀歌 (aika), but related terms like 挽歌 (banka) and エレジー (erejī) are also used depending on context.
The most common meaning: a literary or musical work lamenting a death.
The standard Japanese word for 'elegy'. It refers to a poem or song expressing grief, especially for the dead. Used in both literary and everyday contexts.
彼は亡き友のために哀歌を書いた。
He wrote an elegy for his deceased friend.
Literally 'pulling song', originally a song sung while pulling a hearse. Now refers to an elegy or funeral song. More traditional and literary than 哀歌.
Loanword from English 'elegy'. Often used in musical contexts (e.g., classical music titles) or when referring to Western elegies. Less common in everyday speech.
Literally 'sad song'. Can mean elegy but is broader, referring to any sorrowful poem or song. Less specific than 哀歌.
彼女の悲歌は聴く者の心を打った。
Her sad song touched the hearts of the listeners.
That elegy expresses deep sorrow.
このエレジーはチェロのために作曲された。
This elegy was composed for the cello.