Translation guide
The English word "epistle" refers to a formal or literary letter, often with historical or religious connotations. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through specific terms for letters, with distinctions based on formality, historical context, and religious usage.
formal/literary letter
biblical epistle
To refer to a letter in a formal, literary, or elegant context, similar to the English "epistle" when not specifically religious.
A formal term for a letter, often used in literary or official contexts. It carries a sense of dignity and is the closest general equivalent to "epistle."
He wrote a long epistle.
A somewhat formal term for a letter, similar to 書簡 but slightly more common in historical contexts.
The general word for "letter." While not as formal as "epistle," it can be used in neutral contexts. Use with modifiers like 正式な (formal) to elevate the tone.
To refer specifically to one of the apostolic letters in the New Testament.
The standard term for the Epistles in the New Testament. Literally "apostolic letters."
Paul's epistles are included in the New Testament.
In a biblical context, 書簡 alone can refer to an epistle, especially when the context is clear. Often used in compound titles like ローマ人への書簡 (Epistle to the Romans).
Sometimes used in more colloquial Christian contexts, but 使徒書簡 or 書簡 is preferred for accuracy.
To describe a letter that is long, instructive, or moralizing, often with a tone of authority.
書簡 (shokan) is formal and literary, suitable for historical or elegant contexts. 手紙 (tegami) is the everyday word for 'letter.' Use 書簡 when you want to convey the elevated tone of 'epistle.'
In casual conversation, using 書簡 to refer to a simple letter can sound overly stiff or pretentious. Stick to 手紙 unless the context is formal, historical, or religious.
その書状は江戸時代のものだ。
That epistle is from the Edo period.
彼女は心のこもった手紙を書いた。
She wrote a heartfelt epistle.
ローマ人への書簡を読む。
Read the Epistle to the Romans.
聖書の中のパウロの手紙について話しましょう。
Let's talk about Paul's epistles in the Bible.
I received a didactic epistle from my grandmother.