Translation guide
The activity of spreading a religious faith, especially Christianity, often involving teaching, service, and conversion efforts. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with 伝道 (evangelism/preaching) or 布教 (propagation of teachings), with nuances depending on context.
To refer to the overall activity of Christian missionaries, including preaching, teaching, and service.
The most common term for Christian missionary work, emphasizing evangelism and spreading the gospel. Can be used as a noun or with する to mean 'to do missionary work'.
He is doing missionary work in Africa.
Participate in missionary activities.
Refers to propagation of religious teachings, not limited to Christianity. Often used for organized efforts to spread a faith. Slightly more formal than 伝道.
Missionary work overseas.
Specifically Christian term for mission work, often used in formal or theological contexts. Implies proclaiming the Christian message.
Work as a missionary.
To describe spreading a religion other than Christianity, such as Buddhism or Islam.
The standard term for propagation of any religion. Use this for Buddhist, Islamic, or other missionary work.
Buddhist missionary work.
Primarily Christian, but can be used metaphorically for spreading any belief. Use with caution outside Christian contexts.
Strongly associated with Christianity; may sound odd for other religions.
To emphasize the service aspect of missionary work, such as building schools or providing aid.
To describe a short-term trip for missionary purposes.
伝道 (でんどう) is the most common and general term for Christian missionary work, focusing on preaching. 布教 (ふきょう) is broader, used for any religion's propagation. 宣教 (せんきょう) is a formal Christian term often used in organizational names (e.g., 宣教団体, mission organization). For everyday conversation about missionary work, 伝道 is usually the best choice.
All three main terms (伝道, 布教, 宣教) can be used with する to mean 'to do missionary work'. Example: 伝道する (to evangelize).
She dedicated her life to missionary work.
They are involved in missionary work in rural areas.
He endeavored in Buddhist missionary work.
Their work includes both evangelism and service.