1.
condolence money, funeral offering
Money given to the bereaved family at funerals or memorial services. Presented in special envelopes with appropriate formatting.
不祝儀袋に名前を書いた。
I wrote my name on the condolence money envelope.
不祝儀の相場は関係性によって異なる。
The appropriate amount for condolence money varies depending on the relationship.
2.
unhappy event, mourning occasion
A euphemism for death, funerals, or other unfortunate events.
不祝儀があって急に帰省することになった。
A death in the family came up, so I have to suddenly return home.
ETYMOLOGY: 不 (un-, non-) + 祝儀 (congratulatory gift). Literally "non-celebratory gift," a euphemism for funeral money.
CONTRAST WITH 祝儀:
- 祝儀: money given at happy events (weddings, births)
- 不祝儀: money given at sad events (funerals, memorials)
ENVELOPE ETIQUETTE:
- Use 不祝儀袋 (special mourning envelopes)
- Black and white or silver ties on envelope
- Write name in 薄墨 (light ink) traditionally
- Never use new bills (fold them once first)
APPROPRIATE AMOUNTS (general guide):
- 知人 (acquaintance): 3,000-5,000円
- 友人 (friend): 5,000-10,000円
- 親戚 (relative): 10,000-50,000円
- 親 (parent): 50,000-100,000円
RELATED TERMS:
- 香典 (incense money - synonym for funeral offering)
- 御霊前 (offering to the spirit)
- 御仏前 (offering to the Buddha)
- 弔問 (condolence visit)