Translation guide
The English verb 'preach' can refer to delivering a religious sermon, advocating a belief or principle, or giving unwanted moral advice. In Japanese, different words and expressions are used depending on the context.
To give a talk on a religious or moral subject, especially in a church during a service.
The most common and direct translation for preaching a sermon in a religious context. It can also mean giving a scolding or lecture in non-religious contexts.
牧師は日曜日に教会で説教した。
The pastor preached at church on Sunday.
Used specifically for Buddhist sermons or talks. More formal and religiously specific than 説教する.
僧侶が法話をした。
The monk preached a sermon.
To publicly support or recommend a particular idea, way of life, or policy.
Means to explain, advocate, or preach a doctrine, principle, or truth. Often used for philosophical or ideological teachings.
彼は非暴力の重要性を説いた。
He preached the importance of nonviolence.
To advocate, assert, or proclaim a belief or slogan. Often used for political or social causes.
Literally 'to spread something', used when preaching an idea or belief to a wider audience.
彼は世界中で平和のメッセージを広めている。
He preaches a message of peace around the world.
To give someone advice in a tedious or self-righteous way, often when it is not wanted.
Also used for lecturing or scolding someone in a moralistic way. The context makes it clear it's not a religious sermon.
母は私に勉強しろと説教した。
My mother preached at me to study.
A slightly more polite or softer way to say 'give a lecture/preach'. Often used when the speaker is the recipient.
また部長にお説教された。
I got preached at by the manager again.
To say something in a condescending or preachy manner. Focuses on the attitude rather than the content.
彼はいつも偉そうに人生について語る。
He always preaches about life in a condescending way.
While 説教する can be used for both religious sermons and moral lectures, using it for casual unwanted advice might sound too strong. In many cases, a phrase like うるさく言う (to nag) or 口出しする (to meddle) might be more natural depending on the relationship.
彼はいつも私の服装に口出しする。
He's always preaching to me about my clothes.
彼女は環境保護を唱えている。
She preaches environmental protection.
An adjective meaning 'preachy' or 'sermonizing'. Used to describe a person or their speech.
彼の話は説教臭くて聞きたくない。
His talk is too preachy; I don't want to listen.