Translation guide
A formal event with rituals, often cultural, religious, or official. Japanese distinguishes between formal ceremonies (式), religious rites (儀式), and events (行事). The best word depends on the type of ceremony.
A structured, often secular event with a set program, like a graduation, wedding, or opening ceremony.
The most common word for a formal ceremony with a fixed procedure. Used for graduation, wedding, opening, closing, etc.
卒業式は来週の金曜日です。
The graduation ceremony is next Friday.
結婚式に招待されました。
I was invited to a wedding ceremony.
A more formal or large-scale ceremony, often official or national. Used for state ceremonies, commemorations, etc.
記念式典が行われました。
A commemorative ceremony was held.
A ceremony with religious or spiritual significance, often involving traditional rites.
Refers to a ritual or ceremonial rite, often religious or traditional. Can be used for tea ceremony, Shinto rituals, etc.
茶道の儀式はとても静かです。
The tea ceremony ritual is very quiet.
神社で神聖な儀式が行われた。
A sacred ceremony was performed at the shrine.
Specifically a religious festival or ritual ceremony, often Shinto. Less common in daily conversation.
A ceremony as a cultural event or annual function, like a festival or school event.
Refers to an event or function, often annual or traditional. Covers school events, festivals, and cultural ceremonies.
学校の行事で忙しい。
I'm busy with school events/ceremonies.
お正月は日本の伝統行事です。
New Year's is a traditional Japanese ceremony/event.
Loanword from English, used for Western-style ceremonies or events, often with a modern or casual feel.
Emphasizing the formal, sometimes excessive, display or procedure.
Refers to etiquette, formality, or ceremonial courtesy. Can imply a sense of formality or protocol.
儀礼的な挨拶を交わす。
Exchange ceremonial greetings.
Literally 'a formal thing', used when a ceremony is just a formality without substance.
それは単なる形式的なものだ。
It's just a mere ceremony/formality.
式 (しき) is for structured formal ceremonies like graduations and weddings. 儀式 (ぎしき) is for religious or traditional rituals. 行事 (ぎょうじ) is for events or functions, often annual or cultural. Use 式 for most modern formal ceremonies, 儀式 for rituals, and 行事 for school/cultural events.
セレモニー is a loanword and sounds casual or trendy. It's not suitable for traditional Japanese ceremonies. Use 式 or 儀式 instead for formal or traditional contexts.
祭式に参加する。
Participate in a ritual ceremony.
表彰セレモニーが始まります。
The awards ceremony will begin.