Minna no Nihongo Lesson 24 – Vocabulary Reference

Expanded vocabulary on envelopes, gifts, and celebrations in Japanese culture.
贈答(ぞうとう)の習慣(しゅうかん) Gift-giving customs
VocabularyMeaning
お年玉(としだま)New Year's gift money from parents or relatives
入学祝(にゅうがくいわ)いgift for starting a new school (usually money, stationery, or books)
卒業(そつぎょう)祝(いわ)いgraduation gift (usually money, stationery, or books)
結婚(けっこん)祝(いわ)いwedding gift (usually money or household items)
出産(しゅっさん)祝(いわ)いgift for newborns (usually baby clothes or toys)
お中元(ちゅうげん)mid-year gift (usually food; July or August)
お歳暮(せいぼ)year-end gift (usually food; December)
お香典(こうでん)condolence money for the bereaved family
お見舞(みま)いget-well gift, usually flowers or fruit
熨斗袋(のしぶくろ)special envelope for money gifts


When giving money, use a special kind of envelope. Choose one appropriate for the occasion.

Used for weddings (with a red-and-white or gold-and-silver ribbon).

Used for celebrations (with a red-and-white or gold-and-silver ribbon).

Used for condolences (funerals) (with a black-and-white ribbon).