Translation guide
A religious speech, usually given by a clergy member during a service. In Japanese, the most common word is 説教 (sekkyō), but other terms exist for specific traditions or tones.
A formal religious address, typically in a Christian context, but also used for Buddhist or other traditions.
The standard word for a sermon in any religious context. Can also mean 'preaching' or 'lecturing' in a moralistic sense.
The pastor's sermon touched my heart.
Specifically a Buddhist sermon or dharma talk, often given by a monk.
Buddhist preaching or expounding of teachings. More formal than 法話.
Used in some Christian circles to refer to a sermon, influenced by English 'message'. Less traditional.
A long, tedious, or moralizing speech telling someone how to behave, often unwanted.
While 説教 can mean both a religious sermon and a scolding lecture, using it in the wrong context might sound overly harsh or religious. For a simple scolding, 小言 or 注意 (ちゅうい) might be more appropriate.
I go to listen to the Sunday sermon.
I listened to a Buddhist sermon at the temple.
高僧の説法に多くの人が集まった。
Many people gathered for the high priest's sermon.
今日のメッセージはとても良かった。
Today's message was really good.
The same word as religious sermon, but used figuratively for a lecture or scolding.
I got a long lecture from my mother.
He's always preaching at me.
Polite prefix お softens the word slightly, but still implies a scolding or lecture.
I got a lecture from the teacher.
Nagging, scolding, or petty complaints. Less formal than 説教.
The nagging has started again.
Admonition or exhortation, often used in formal or legal contexts.
I received an admonition from the judge.