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.
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.
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.
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.
On behalf of the family, I offered words of farewell to my grandmother.
The attendees one after another spoke words in memory of the deceased.