Translation guide
An epitaph is a short text honoring a deceased person, typically inscribed on a tombstone or monument. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific terms for the inscription itself, as well as related words for tombstone inscriptions and memorial poetry.
epitaph (on a tombstone)
The most common meaning: a short text inscribed on a gravestone in memory of the deceased.
The standard term for an epitaph; literally 'tombstone inscription'. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
His epitaph reads, 'Surrounded by loving family.'
Loanword from English, used in literary or Western cultural contexts. Less common than 墓碑銘.
That poem was chosen as his epitaph.
A broader sense: a short composition in memory of the dead, not necessarily on a tombstone.
A traditional poem written near the time of one's own death, often functioning as an epitaph.
A farewell poem composed just before death, often inscribed on a memorial. Culturally specific to Japan.
His death poem was inscribed on his tombstone as an epitaph.
Specifically the poem itself. Often used when referring to the content of the epitaph.
墓碑銘 specifically refers to an inscription on a gravestone. For a memorial text not on a stone, use 追悼文 or 碑文 depending on context.
She wrote a heartfelt epitaph for her grandmother.
A famous death poem used as an epitaph is 'Like dew I fall, like dew I vanish.'