Translation guide
A formal speech delivered at a funeral to honor the deceased. In Japanese, this is typically expressed with specific terms for eulogy or memorial address, and the cultural context emphasizes respect and formality.
A speech praising and remembering the deceased, delivered at a funeral or memorial service.
The standard term for a eulogy or funeral address. It is a formal speech given at a funeral to express condolences and praise the deceased.
彼は友人の葬儀で心のこもった弔辞を読んだ。
He delivered a heartfelt eulogy at his friend's funeral.
Similar to 弔辞, but can also refer to a written message of condolence. In speech contexts, it is interchangeable with 弔辞, though 弔辞 is more common for spoken eulogies.
A softer, more personal expression meaning 'words of farewell.' Often used in less formal or more intimate settings, such as a memorial gathering rather than a strictly formal funeral.
家族を代表して、祖母にお別れの言葉を贈りました。
On behalf of the family, I offered words of farewell to my grandmother.
Literally 'words to remember the deceased.' This is a descriptive phrase rather than a fixed term, used when emphasizing the act of reminiscing about the person.
参列者たちは故人を偲ぶ言葉を次々と述べた。
The attendees one after another spoke words in memory of the deceased.
In Japan, funeral orations are highly formalized. The eulogy (弔辞) is usually delivered by a close friend, colleague, or family representative. It follows a set structure: opening condolences, recounting memories, praising the deceased's character, and closing with wishes for the afterlife. It is read from a prepared text, often written in formal, respectful language (敬語).
Both mean 'eulogy' or 'funeral address.' 弔辞 is more common for the spoken speech, while 弔詞 can also refer to a written condolence message. In practice, they are often used interchangeably, but 弔辞 is the safer choice for a spoken oration.
It is a great honor to deliver a eulogy at a funeral.