Translation guide
A meritorious deed is an act that earns moral or spiritual credit, often in a religious or ethical context. In Japanese, this concept is most commonly expressed through terms related to good deeds, virtuous acts, or the accumulation of merit, especially in Buddhist contexts.
meritorious deed (general)
Most common equivalent for a good or virtuous act.
meritorious deed (Buddhist merit)
Specifically refers to spiritual merit in Buddhism.
Expressing the idea of a morally good or praiseworthy action in everyday or ethical contexts.
Referring to deeds that generate spiritual merit (karma) in a Buddhist context.
Merit or virtuous deed that brings spiritual benefits. Central to Buddhist practice.
Donations become a great meritorious deed.
To accumulate good karma or merit through virtuous acts. Common in Buddhist teachings.
Good karma or virtuous deed, specifically in a karmic sense. More technical Buddhist term.
Highlighting deeds that involve giving or helping others, often with a moral or social value.
善行 is a secular term for any good deed, while 功徳 is a religious term for merit that affects one's karma. Use 功徳 only in Buddhist or spiritual contexts.
Volunteering is a good deed.
Donating to a temple becomes a meritorious deed.
The English phrase 'meritorious deed' sounds formal and somewhat archaic. In Japanese, using 功績のある行為 is unnatural; prefer the terms listed above depending on context.
That noble deed will be passed down to future generations.
Small daily kindnesses accumulate merit.
善業を積めば、来世で良い報いがある。
If you accumulate good karma, you will receive good rewards in the next life.
His righteous deed was recognized by the community.