Translation guide
The concept of a wedding in Japanese is expressed through several words and phrases, depending on the context, formality, and type of ceremony. The most common and versatile term is 結婚式, but other expressions are used for specific aspects like the reception, Western-style vs. traditional ceremonies, and casual references.
To refer to a wedding ceremony in general, including both Western-style and traditional Japanese ceremonies.
The standard, neutral term for a wedding ceremony. It can refer to any type of wedding, but often implies a formal event with a ceremony and reception.
I'm attending a friend's wedding next month.
The wedding ceremony was held at a church.
A more formal or literary term for a wedding ceremony. Often used in written contexts or formal announcements.
The wedding ceremony was solemnly conducted.
A very formal, almost archaic term for a wedding ceremony, often used in historical or traditional contexts.
After the wedding ceremony, the two became husband and wife.
To refer specifically to the wedding reception or party, which is a major part of Japanese weddings.
The standard term for a wedding reception or banquet. It is the formal party after the ceremony where guests eat, drink, and give speeches.
At the reception, there were speeches by friends of the bride and groom.
A more casual term for a wedding party or celebration. It may refer to a less formal gathering, sometimes separate from the traditional reception.
I was invited to a wedding party.
Refers to the after-party or second party, often held at a bar or restaurant after the formal reception. It is more casual and usually for friends and younger guests.
To specify a Western-style wedding, often held in a chapel or church, with a white dress and tuxedo.
Literally 'church-style', this refers to a Christian or Western-style wedding ceremony, even if held in a non-religious chapel. It is the most common style in modern Japan.
They got married in a church ceremony.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'Western-style wedding'. It can be used to contrast with a traditional Japanese wedding.
To refer to a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony, often held at a shrine, with the bride wearing a kimono.
A Shinto-style wedding ceremony held at a shrine. It is the traditional Japanese wedding, though less common today than Western-style.
The number of couples getting married in a Shinto ceremony is increasing.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'Japanese-style wedding'. It can encompass Shinto ceremonies or other traditional formats.
To express the action of having a wedding ceremony or getting married.
The most common verb phrase meaning 'to hold a wedding ceremony'. It focuses on the event itself.
We plan to have our wedding next year.
The general verb for 'to get married'. It can refer to the legal act or the overall event, but does not specifically mean 'wedding ceremony'.
They got married last year.
A shorter version of 結婚式を挙げる, often used when the context is clear.
Where are you having the ceremony?
To refer to a wedding anniversary.
The standard term for 'wedding anniversary'.
Today is my parents' wedding anniversary.
結婚式 refers specifically to the ceremony (vows, ring exchange), while 披露宴 is the reception/banquet. In casual conversation, 結婚式 may be used to refer to the entire event including the reception, but in formal contexts they are distinct. Many Japanese weddings include both a ceremony and a reception, often at the same venue.
When attending a Japanese wedding, it is customary to give gift money (ご祝儀, ごしゅうぎ) in a special envelope. The amount depends on your relationship to the couple. This is an important cultural practice to be aware of.
披露宴の料理はとても豪華でした。
The food at the wedding reception was very luxurious.
披露宴の後、二次会に行きました。
After the reception, we went to the after-party.
I want to have a Western-style wedding.
Have you ever attended a Japanese-style wedding?
Another term for a Shinto wedding, emphasizing the marriage itself rather than the ceremony.
There are various reasons for choosing a Shinto wedding.