祝辞

• Reading: しゅくじ
• Romaji: shukuji
• Kanji breakdown: 祝 (shuku/iwa) — celebrate, congratulate; 辞 (ji) — word, speech, resign
• Pronunciation: /ɕɯ.kɯ.dʑi/

Meaning

Congratulatory address; congratulatory speech. A formal speech given to celebrate an occasion.

A formal noun referring to speeches delivered at ceremonies such as weddings, graduations, and company events. In Japanese culture, such speeches follow established conventions and are considered an important social obligation. Often paired with 述べる (to deliver/state).

Examples

1. 校長先生が卒業式で祝辞を述べた。 The principal delivered a congratulatory address at the graduation ceremony.
2. 結婚式の祝辞を頼まれて緊張している。 I'm nervous because I was asked to give a speech at a wedding.
3. 社長の祝辞は短くて印象的だった。 The president's congratulatory remarks were brief and memorable.

Usage Guide

Context: ceremonies, weddings, graduations

Tone: celebratory

Origin & History

Compound of 祝 (shuku, celebrate/congratulate) + 辞 (ji, word/speech). Literally 'words of celebration,' a term used in formal ceremonial contexts since classical times.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal