Translation guide
The English word "repent" expresses sincere regret and a commitment to change. In Japanese, the most natural equivalent depends on the context: religious repentance, personal regret, or a formal apology.
To express sincere regret for sins and turn away from them, often in a religious context.
The standard term for religious repentance, implying a change of heart and behavior. Commonly used in Christian contexts.
罪を悔い改めて、神に立ち返りなさい。
Repent of your sins and return to God.
Specifically refers to confession and repentance, often in a Buddhist or formal religious setting.
彼は寺で自分の過ちを懺悔した。
He repented of his mistakes at the temple.
To feel deep regret for a past action and decide not to repeat it, in everyday life.
Means to reflect on one's actions with regret and a desire to improve. Very common in daily life, school, and work.
自分の行動を反省しています。
I am reflecting on my actions (with regret).
彼は遅刻を反省し、明日から早く起きると言った。
He regretted being late and said he would wake up early from tomorrow.
Focuses on the feeling of regret itself, without necessarily implying a change in behavior. Closer to 'regret' than 'repent'.
あの時言わなければよかったと後悔している。
I regret saying that back then.
To express deep remorse and apologize formally, often in public or official settings.
A formal phrase meaning 'deeply reflect/regret', used in official apologies.
会社は不祥事を深く反省し、再発防止に努めます。
The company deeply regrets the scandal and will strive to prevent recurrence.
Means 'to apologize' formally. Often used with words indicating remorse.
大臣は失言を謝罪し、辞任した。
The minister apologized for the gaffe and resigned.
反省する (hansei suru) implies self-reflection with a forward-looking intention to improve, similar to 'repent'. 後悔する (kōkai suru) is simply feeling regret about the past, without necessarily changing behavior. Use 反省する when you want to convey a resolve to do better.
Directly translating 'repent' as 悔いる (kuiru) is possible but sounds archaic or literary. In modern conversation, use 反省する or 悔い改める depending on context.
Literally 'change one's heart', meaning to turn over a new leaf or reform oneself. Stronger than just regret.
彼は心を入れ替えて、真面目に働き始めた。
He repented and started working seriously.