Translation guide
The English word "redemption" covers several distinct ideas: religious salvation, making up for past mistakes, exchanging points or vouchers, and financial repayment. This guide breaks down these meanings and shows how to express them naturally in Japanese.
To express the Christian concept of being saved from sin through Jesus Christ.
The most direct theological term for redemption, meaning atonement or ransom. Commonly used in Christian contexts.
キリストの贖いによって罪が赦される。
Through Christ's redemption, sins are forgiven.
General term for salvation or deliverance. Broader than redemption but often used in similar contexts.
イエスは人類の救いのために十字架にかけられた。
Jesus was crucified for the redemption of humanity.
Literally 'atonement for sin'. More formal and theological, often used in doctrinal discussions.
贖罪の教理はキリスト教の中心である。
The doctrine of redemption is central to Christianity.
To describe the act of improving one's reputation or situation after a period of difficulty or wrongdoing.
Regaining something lost, such as reputation, trust, or a lead in a game. Often used in the phrase '名誉挽回' (restoring honor).
彼は失敗を挽回するために懸命に働いた。
He worked hard to redeem himself after his failure.
Literally 'to clear one's name'. Used when someone wants to remove a bad reputation.
彼は汚名を返上するために全力を尽くした。
He did his best to redeem his reputation.
To restore one's honor. Similar to '汚名を返上する' but slightly more formal.
彼はその試合で名誉を回復した。
He redeemed his honor in that match.
Vindication or revenge for a past defeat. Often used in sports or competitive contexts.
To describe using accumulated points, miles, or vouchers to get goods, services, or discounts.
General verb for exchanging or redeeming. Use with 'ポイント' (points) or 'クーポン' (coupon).
ポイントを商品と交換できます。
You can redeem points for merchandise.
To exchange (a voucher, ticket, etc.) for something. Often used with 'クーポン' or 'チケット'.
このクーポンは無料ドリンクと引き換えられます。
This coupon can be redeemed for a free drink.
Simply 'to use'. Very common in casual contexts for redeeming points or coupons.
To describe paying off a debt or reclaiming an item by paying the required amount.
Technical term for redemption of bonds or securities. Also used for repayment of debts.
その債券は満期時に償還される。
The bond will be redeemed at maturity.
To redeem a pawned item by paying back the loan. Used specifically for pawnshops.
質に入れた時計を受け出す。
Redeem a pawned watch.
To buy back or repurchase something previously sold. Can be used for redeeming property.
The English word 'redemption' covers several distinct concepts. Do not assume a single Japanese word fits all contexts. Always choose the term that matches the specific meaning you intend.
贖い (atonement) emphasizes the payment for sin, while 救い (salvation) is broader and includes deliverance from sin and its consequences. In everyday Christian speech, 救い is more common, but 贖い is more precise for theological discussions.
チームは雪辱を果たすために練習に励んだ。
The team practiced hard to redeem themselves.
Don't forget to redeem your points.
彼は家を買い戻すことができた。
He was able to redeem his house.