Translation guide
A short story that teaches a moral or spiritual lesson, often using everyday situations. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is たとえ話, but other terms exist for specific contexts like the Bible or Buddhist teachings.
To refer to a short story that illustrates a moral or religious principle, like those told by Jesus or in everyday teaching.
The most common and versatile word for 'parable'. It literally means 'example story' and can be used for both religious and secular contexts.
Jesus taught using parables.
He told a parable to the child.
Often translated as 'fable' or 'allegory', but can overlap with 'parable'. It implies a fictional story with a moral, often featuring animals or mythical elements. Slightly more literary.
Aesop's fables are famous.
An alternative kanji spelling for たとえ話, using the older character 譬. It is less common and may appear in literary or traditional texts.
This parable is found in old literature.
Specifically for stories used in Buddhist teachings to convey spiritual truths.
In Buddhism, this term refers to parables, allegories, or metaphors used to explain complex doctrines. It is a technical term in Buddhist contexts.
The Lotus Sutra contains many parables.
Also used in Buddhist contexts, but less specific than 譬喩. It is more accessible to general audiences.
To refer to the parables of Jesus in the New Testament.
たとえ話 is the everyday word for a parable or illustrative story. 寓話 leans toward fable or allegory, often with non-human characters. 譬喩 is a technical term for Buddhist or biblical allegories and is rarely used in casual conversation.
When you want to say 'Let me give you a parable' or 'It's like the parable of...', you can use たとえ話 naturally. For example: たとえ話をすると、... (To use a parable...).
The monk gave a sermon using parables.
I am researching biblical parables.