Translation guide
The English word "testimony" refers to a formal statement given as evidence, especially in a legal or official context. In Japanese, the most direct equivalent is 証言 (shōgen), but other words and phrases are used depending on the context, such as personal accounts, written statements, or sworn declarations.
A formal oral or written statement given as evidence in a legal proceeding.
The standard term for testimony in a legal context. Can be used for both oral and written statements given in court or to authorities.
彼は裁判で証言した。
He gave testimony in court.
証言は証拠として採用された。
The testimony was admitted as evidence.
The verb phrase meaning "to testify" or "to give testimony."
目撃者が証言する予定だ。
The witness is scheduled to testify.
Refers to a statement or deposition, often used in police investigations or pre-trial proceedings. Slightly more formal and can imply a written statement.
容疑者は供述を翻した。
The suspect retracted his testimony.
Specifically refers to sworn testimony, i.e., testimony given under oath. Used in formal legal contexts.
証人は宣誓証言を行った。
The witness gave sworn testimony.
A personal story or statement about something one has witnessed or experienced, often in non-legal contexts.
While primarily legal, 証言 can also be used for personal accounts, especially when emphasizing the truth or importance of the statement.
彼女の証言は感動的だった。
Her testimony was moving.
Means "personal account" or "story of one's experience." Commonly used for sharing personal experiences, not necessarily legal.
Often used in religious contexts to mean "testimony" or "witness," referring to sharing one's faith or spiritual experience.
A written document containing a formal statement, often sworn.
A written statement or affidavit submitted to a court or authority. Very common in legal proceedings.
陳述書を裁判所に提出した。
I submitted a written testimony to the court.
An affidavit; a written statement confirmed by oath. Used in formal legal contexts.
宣誓供述書に署名した。
I signed the affidavit.
証言 (shōgen) is the general term for testimony, often in court. 供述 (kyōjutsu) is more specific to statements made during investigations or depositions, and can imply a suspect's or defendant's statement. In everyday conversation, 証言 is more common.
証人は証言し、容疑者は供述した。
The witness testified, and the suspect made a statement.
While 'give testimony' can be translated as 証言をする, it is more natural to use the verb 証言する (shōgen suru). Using 与える (ataeru) would be incorrect.
彼は証言した。
He gave testimony.
その証人の証言は事件の鍵となった。
The witness's testimony was crucial to the case.
彼女は病気を克服した体験談を語った。
She shared her testimony about overcoming illness.
彼の体験談は多くの人に希望を与えた。
His testimony (personal account) gave hope to many people.
I gave a testimony of faith at church.