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.
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.
The pastor's sermon touched my heart.
I go to listen to the Sunday sermon.
Specifically a Buddhist sermon or dharma talk, often given by a monk.
I listened to a Buddhist sermon at the temple.
Buddhist preaching or expounding of teachings. More formal than 法話.
Many people gathered for the high priest's sermon.
Used in some Christian circles to refer to a sermon, influenced by English 'message'. Less traditional.
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.