Translation guide
The ceremony or service held after someone's death. In Japan, funerals are typically Buddhist, though secular and other religious styles exist. The most common general term is 葬式 (そうしき), but 葬儀 (そうぎ) is more formal. The event involves a wake (通夜) and a funeral/cremation ceremony (葬儀・告別式).
The overall event of a funeral, including wake and ceremony.
The most common, everyday word for a funeral. Used in casual and neutral contexts.
I went to a friend's funeral yesterday.
A more formal term, often used in official contexts or when referring to the ceremony itself.
The funeral will be held from 10 a.m.
Polite form of 葬式, often used when speaking respectfully about someone else's funeral.
When is the funeral?
The gathering held the night before the funeral, where friends and family pay respects.
The formal ceremony, often followed by cremation.
The farewell ceremony, often part of the funeral service where attendees say their final goodbyes. Sometimes used interchangeably with 葬儀.
We said our final goodbyes at the funeral ceremony.
Also used for the ceremony itself, especially in formal contexts.
Expressing the act of going to or participating in a funeral.
Common phrases and vocabulary associated with funerals.
Condolence money given to the bereaved family at a funeral.
How much condolence money should I give?
Mourning clothes; typically black formal attire worn to funerals.
A standard expression of condolence: 'May his/her soul rest in peace.' Used in speeches or messages.
I sincerely pray for the repose of his soul.
A formal expression of sympathy: 'I offer my condolences.' Used when speaking to the bereaved.
葬式 is the most general and casual term. 葬儀 is formal and often used in official contexts. 告別式 specifically refers to the farewell ceremony, which may be part of the funeral. In everyday conversation, 葬式 is safest.
When attending a Japanese funeral, wear black formal attire (喪服), bring condolence money (香典) in a special envelope, and offer incense (焼香) at the altar. It is customary to bow to the bereaved family and offer brief condolences.
I attended the wake.
The funeral ceremony was held solemnly.
Many people attended the funeral.
Wear mourning clothes to the funeral.
I am sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences.