Translation guide
The first anniversary of a person's death is a significant memorial event in Japan, often involving Buddhist rituals and family gatherings.
Referring to the Buddhist memorial service held on the first anniversary of death.
The standard term for the first anniversary Buddhist memorial service. It is a formal event where family and close friends gather to honor the deceased.
Referring to the actual date or the period around one year after death.
Literally 'one year from the death anniversary'. Used when talking about the passage of time since the death.
命日から一年が経ちました。
One year has passed since the death anniversary.
In Japan, the first anniversary of death (一周忌) is one of the most important memorial services. It is typically held on the exact date of death according to the lunar or solar calendar, and involves Buddhist prayers, offerings, and a meal with attendees. Unlike some Western customs, it is a formal, somber occasion.
Do not use terms like 記念日 (kinenbi, anniversary in a celebratory sense) for a death anniversary. The word 一周忌 is specifically for mourning and memorial.
Next month is the first anniversary of my father's death.
一周忌の法要を営みました。
We held a memorial service for the first anniversary.
Explicitly refers to the memorial service (法要) on the first anniversary. Used in formal contexts or invitations.
一周忌法要のご案内を送りました。
We sent out invitations for the first anniversary memorial service.
Another term for the memorial service, using 法事 (Buddhist memorial service). Slightly less common than 一周忌法要.
一周忌法事は親族のみで行います。
The first anniversary memorial service will be held with only relatives.
A common phrase meaning 'to reach the first anniversary of death'. Often used in announcements or reflections.
まもなく祖母の一周忌を迎えます。
We will soon reach the first anniversary of my grandmother's death.