Translation guide
The English word "vow" refers to a solemn promise or commitment. In Japanese, the most natural way to express this depends on the context: formal oaths, personal resolutions, or wedding vows each use different expressions.
To express a serious, often formal promise, such as an oath of loyalty or a pledge to do something.
A general noun for a vow or oath. Can be used in both formal and personal contexts.
To express a strong personal decision to do or not do something, like a New Year's resolution.
Also used for personal vows. Often combined with verbs like 立てる (to make a vow).
The promises exchanged between partners during a wedding ceremony.
The standard term for wedding vows. Often used in the phrase 結婚の誓いを立てる (to exchange wedding vows).
二人は教会で結婚の誓いを交わした。
The two exchanged wedding vows at the church.
誓い (chikai) is a solemn, often lifelong vow, while 約束 (yakusoku) is a general promise or appointment. Use 誓い for serious commitments like oaths or wedding vows, and 約束 for everyday promises.
彼は禁煙の誓いを立てた。
He made a vow to quit smoking.
彼は明日会う約束をした。
He made a promise to meet tomorrow.
Using 誓い for a minor promise can sound overly dramatic or unnatural. Stick to 約束 for everyday situations.
彼は忠誠の誓いを立てた。
He made a vow of loyalty.
A formal, often written pledge or covenant. Used in legal or official contexts.
彼らは秘密を守る誓約を交わした。
They exchanged a vow to keep the secret.
A formal oath, especially in court or official ceremonies. Often used for legal or public declarations.
証人は真実を述べることを宣誓した。
The witness took a vow to tell the truth.
新年の誓いを立てた。
I made a New Year's vow.
Literally 'to vow in one's heart', used for silent, personal resolutions.
二度と嘘をつかないと心に誓った。
I vowed to myself never to lie again.
Verb pattern: 'to vow that...' or 'to vow to...'. The quoted part before と is the content of the vow.
彼は必ず成功すると誓った。
He vowed that he would definitely succeed.
Literally 'words of vow', often used in the context of wedding ceremonies.
新郎新婦が誓いの言葉を述べた。
The bride and groom recited their vows.