Translation guide
The English word 'preaching' can refer to the act of delivering a religious sermon, or more broadly to giving moral advice in a tedious or self-righteous way. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both meanings.
To refer to the act of delivering a religious talk, especially in a Christian context.
The most common word for a religious sermon or preaching. Can be used for Christian sermons or Buddhist teachings.
To express giving unwanted moral advice in a self-righteous or tedious manner.
I'm tired of his constant preaching about healthy eating. · Stop preaching at me!
English often uses the gerund 'preaching' as a noun. In Japanese, it's more natural to use the noun 説教 or a verb phrase like 説教をする rather than trying to directly translate the -ing form.
説教 is the general term for a sermon or preaching, while 伝道 specifically refers to evangelism or missionary work, often with the goal of conversion.
The pastor's preaching touched my heart.
日曜日の説教を聞きに行く。
I go to listen to the Sunday preaching.
The verb phrase 'to preach' or 'to give a sermon'.
彼は教会で説教をした。
He preached at the church.
Refers to evangelism or missionary work, often involving preaching to spread the faith.
彼は伝道のためにアフリカへ行った。
He went to Africa for preaching (evangelism).
A Buddhist sermon or discourse. Used specifically in Buddhist contexts.
お寺で法話を聞いた。
I listened to a Buddhist preaching at the temple.
The same word as for religious preaching, but used metaphorically for moralizing or lecturing. Often used with a negative connotation.
彼の説教にはうんざりだ。
I'm fed up with his preaching.
説教はやめてくれ。
Stop preaching at me.
Adding the honorific prefix 'お' makes it sound slightly more sarcastic or emphasizes the unwanted nature of the lecture.
またお説教が始まった。
Here comes the preaching again.
An adjective meaning 'preachy' or 'sounding like a sermon'. Used to describe someone's tone or words.
彼の言い方は説教くさい。
His way of speaking is preachy.
To preach in a condescending or self-important manner.
彼はいつも偉そうに説教する。
He always preaches condescendingly.
A noun meaning sanctimonious preaching or hypocritical moralizing, pretending to be for someone's benefit.
彼のアドバイスはおためごかしに過ぎない。
His advice is nothing but sanctimonious preaching.