Translation guide
A meal held to say goodbye to someone who is leaving, such as a colleague, friend, or family member. In Japanese, this is often expressed with specific compound nouns or descriptive phrases, and the choice depends on the formality and context.
A dinner party or meal organized to bid farewell to someone, typically in a social or workplace setting.
The most common and neutral term for a farewell party or dinner, often used in workplace or formal settings. It implies a gathering with food and drinks.
Specifically referring to the dinner itself, rather than the party, often in a more descriptive way.
A more literal phrase meaning 'farewell meal gathering.' It emphasizes the dining aspect and is suitable for both formal and informal settings.
送別会 is the standard term for a formal farewell party, often involving colleagues or acquaintances. お別れ会 is more personal and can be used for friends, children's groups, or casual settings. Using 送別会 for a close friend might sound too stiff, while お別れ会 in a business context could seem too casual.
In Japan, farewell dinners (送別会) are common in workplaces, especially during the spring job rotation season. They often involve speeches, gifts, and a set course meal. It's customary for the person leaving to give a short speech and for attendees to share memories.
We're holding a farewell dinner for Tanaka-san next week.
The venue for the farewell dinner is a restaurant in front of the station.
A softer, more personal term for a farewell gathering. Often used for less formal occasions, such as among friends or for someone leaving a casual group.
I had a farewell dinner with my friends and took lots of photos.
A send-off party, often with a connotation of cheering someone on as they embark on a new endeavor (e.g., studying abroad, starting a new job). More specific than a general farewell dinner.
At the farewell dinner for my friend who is studying abroad, I gave words of encouragement.
I've reserved a farewell dinner.
A loanword phrase combining 'send-off' and 'dinner.' It sounds slightly more modern or Western-style, often used for upscale or casual restaurant settings.
The farewell dinner for the department head will be held at a French restaurant.
A casual, warm expression for a farewell meal, often used among close friends or family. It can sound a bit emotional.
Tomorrow, we're planning to have a farewell dinner as a family.