Translation guide
A godparent is a sponsor at a child's baptism who takes on a spiritual mentorship role. In Japanese, the concept is primarily expressed through Christian terminology, but cultural equivalents exist in non-religious contexts.
A person who sponsors a child's baptism and promises to help raise the child in the Christian faith.
General term for godparent in Christian contexts. Can refer to either godfather or godmother.
He is my godparent.
Another term for godparent, emphasizing the teaching role. Less common than 代父母.
As a godparent, you have the responsibility to guide the child's faith.
Loanword from English. Used in some Christian communities, but less common than Japanese terms.
I attended the baptism as a godparent.
Specifically a male godparent.
Specifically a female godparent.
A person who takes on a similar supportive role without religious connotations, such as a legal guardian or a trusted family friend who acts as a mentor.
Literally 'name-giving parent'. In Japan, this refers to the person who names a child, often a respected relative or friend, and may take on a lifelong mentorship role similar to a godparent. Not religious.
He is my name-giver and always gives me advice.
Legal guardian. Can be used for a non-parental guardian, but lacks the spiritual/mentorship nuance.
A person who acts as a parent figure. Not a formal title, but describes the role.
Terms like 代父母 are specifically Christian. Using them in non-Christian contexts may cause confusion. For non-religious mentorship, use 名付け親 or describe the relationship.
Both mean godparent. 代父母 is more common and neutral. 教父母 emphasizes the teaching role and is less frequent.
He is my godfather.
My godmother sends me a card every Christmas.
After my parents passed away, my uncle became my guardian.
My grandmother was like a parent to me.