Translation guide
A eulogy is a speech or piece of writing that praises someone, typically delivered at a funeral. In Japanese, the most direct equivalent is 弔辞 (chōji), but other expressions exist depending on context, such as formal memorial addresses or personal tributes.
A formal speech given at a funeral or memorial service to honor the deceased.
The standard term for a eulogy delivered at a funeral. It is a formal, respectful speech.
彼は葬儀で心のこもった弔辞を読んだ。
He read a heartfelt eulogy at the funeral.
A softer, more personal expression meaning 'words of farewell.' Often used in less formal settings or by family members.
祖母のお別れの言葉を述べるのは辛かった。
It was hard to give a eulogy for my grandmother.
A more literary term for a eulogy or memorial address, often used in written form or formal ceremonies.
彼の悼辞は参列者の心を打った。
His eulogy touched the hearts of the attendees.
A written piece praising someone, often published after their death, not necessarily delivered orally.
A written tribute or memorial article. Commonly used in newspapers, magazines, or online.
新聞に彼の追悼文が掲載された。
A eulogy for him was published in the newspaper.
General phrase for words of remembrance, can be spoken or written.
彼女は追悼の言葉をブログに書いた。
She wrote a eulogy on her blog.
High praise for someone still alive, often in a speech or article, similar to a tribute.
Words of praise or a tribute. Not limited to funerals; can be used for living persons.
彼の功績に対する賛辞が贈られた。
A eulogy was given in honor of his achievements.
Words of praise or admiration, suitable for speeches or writings honoring someone.
会長は退任する社長に称賛の言葉を述べた。
The chairman delivered a eulogy for the retiring president.
The English word 'eulogy' is strongly associated with funerals. In Japanese, using 賛辞 (sanji) for a funeral speech would be unnatural. Stick to 弔辞 (chōji) for funeral contexts.
弔辞 is a formal, often written speech read at a funeral. お別れの言葉 is more personal and emotional, used by close family or friends. Choose based on the level of formality and your relationship to the deceased.