Translation guide
The English word 'prayer' can refer to the act of praying, a set of words used in prayer, or a specific request made to a deity. In Japanese, different words and phrases are used depending on the context, such as personal prayer, formal religious prayer, or a wish. This guide helps you choose the most natural expression.
To refer to the act of communicating with a deity or the words spoken during that act, in a general or personal context.
The most common and general word for 'prayer'. It can refer to both the act of praying and the words used. Suitable for everyday use, including personal prayers.
毎晩、寝る前に祈りを捧げます。
Every night, I offer a prayer before going to bed.
彼女の祈りはとても美しかった。
Her prayer was very beautiful.
Polite form of 祈り, often used in formal settings or when referring to prayers in a respectful manner, such as at ceremonies or for others.
Nominalized form meaning 'the act of praying'. Used when emphasizing the action itself.
祈ることは心を落ち着かせます。
Praying calms the mind.
To refer to a fixed, often religious, prayer text.
To express a personal request or wish made in prayer.
To refer specifically to Christian prayer practices.
While 祈り can mean 'prayer', it is not used for casual wishes like 'I hope it doesn't rain.' For that, use 願う (ねがう) or 〜といいな.
祈り (いのり) implies a spiritual or religious act of praying, while 願い (ねがい) is a general wish or desire. Use 願い for non-religious hopes.
彼女は病気の友達のために祈りを捧げた。
She said a prayer for her sick friend.
皆様の安全をお祈りいたします。
I pray for everyone's safety.
Can also be used for specific prayers, especially when the context makes it clear.
主の祈りを唱えましょう。
Let us recite the Lord's Prayer.
A more formal term for prayer, often used in religious ceremonies or for specific ritual prayers. Can sound stiff in casual conversation.
神社で祈祷を受ける。
Receive a prayer (ritual) at a shrine.
Refers to a prayer for a specific wish or petition, often at a shrine or temple. More about the act of making a wish.
合格祈願の祈祷を受けた。
I received a prayer for passing the exam.
Literally 'a thing wished for'. Commonly used when referring to the content of a prayer, especially at shrines or temples.
神様に願い事をする。
Make a wish/prayer to God.
As above, but can also refer to the prayer itself as a petition.
世界平和を祈願する。
Pray for world peace.
Still the standard term, but often used with Christian-specific phrases.
教会で祈りを捧げる。
Offer a prayer at church.
Polite form, often used by Christians when speaking respectfully about prayer.
お祈りをしましょう。
Let us pray.
The priest led the congregation in prayer.