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.
来月、友達の結婚式に出席します。
I'm attending a friend's wedding next month.
結婚式は教会で行われました。
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.
婚礼の儀は厳かに執り行われた。
The wedding ceremony was solemnly conducted.
A very formal, almost archaic term for a wedding ceremony, often used in historical or traditional contexts.
結婚の儀を終え、二人は夫婦となった。
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.
披露宴では、新郎新婦の友人によるスピーチがありました。
At the reception, there were speeches by friends of the bride and groom.
披露宴の料理はとても豪華でした。
The food at the wedding reception was very luxurious.
A more casual term for a wedding party or celebration. It may refer to a less formal gathering, sometimes separate from the traditional reception.
結婚パーティーに招待されました。
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.
彼らは教会式で結婚しました。
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.
洋式の結婚式を挙げたいです。
I want to have a Western-style 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.
神前式で結婚するカップルが増えています。
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.
和式の結婚式に参列したことがありますか？
Have you ever attended a Japanese-style wedding?
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.
私たちは来年結婚式を挙げる予定です。
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'.
彼らは去年結婚しました。
They got married last year.
A shorter version of 結婚式を挙げる, often used when the context is clear.
式はどこで挙げるの？
Where are you having the ceremony?
To refer to a wedding anniversary.
The standard term for 'wedding anniversary'.
今日は両親の結婚記念日です。
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.
披露宴の後、二次会に行きました。
After the reception, we went to the after-party.
Another term for a Shinto wedding, emphasizing the marriage itself rather than the ceremony.
神前結婚を選ぶ理由は様々です。
There are various reasons for choosing a Shinto wedding.