Translation guide
The English word "rosary" refers to a string of beads used in Catholic prayer, as well as the prayers themselves. In Japanese, the physical object is most commonly called ロザリオ, while the prayer practice is ロザリオの祈り. There are also Buddhist prayer beads called 数珠, which are similar but used in a different religious context.
The physical string of beads used for Catholic devotions.
The most common and direct translation for the Catholic rosary beads. Widely understood.
My grandmother prays with her rosary every day.
Literally 'rosary beads', using the Japanese word for Buddhist prayer beads. Clarifies it is a rosary, not a Buddhist 数珠.
I bought this rosary in the Vatican.
Means 'Holy Rosary', often used in formal or religious contexts to emphasize the sacred nature.
Let us pray the Holy Rosary.
The set of prayers recited using the rosary beads.
A string of beads used in Buddhist practice, similar in appearance but distinct in use.
The general term for Buddhist prayer beads. Not used for Catholic rosaries unless specified as ロザリオの数珠.
I bought prayer beads at the temple.
Another term for Buddhist prayer beads, often used in more formal or traditional contexts. Interchangeable with 数珠.
Referring to the rosary in a broader cultural or symbolic sense.
Also used for the rosary as a symbol of faith or a religious accessory.
He wears a rosary around his neck.
ロザリオ specifically refers to the Catholic rosary, while 数珠 (or 念珠) refers to Buddhist prayer beads. Using 数珠 for a Catholic rosary without clarification may cause confusion. If you need to specify a Catholic rosary in a context where 数珠 might be assumed, use ロザリオ or ロザリオの数珠.
This is a Catholic rosary, not Buddhist prayer beads.
Holding the prayer beads, they chant sutras.