Translation guide
CHI is a concept from Chinese philosophy often translated as 'material force' or 'vital energy'. For English-speaking learners, it is most commonly encountered as the loanword 気 (ki) in Japanese, referring to spirit, mood, energy, or atmosphere.
The Chinese philosophical concept of qi, the fundamental life force or energy that flows through all things.
The Japanese reading of the Chinese character 氣, used in philosophical, medical, and martial arts contexts to refer to the universal life force.
気は万物に流れている。
Ki flows through all things.
Referring to one's mental or emotional state, atmosphere, or inclination.
Refers to one's mood or feeling at a particular moment. Commonly used in daily conversation.
I feel good today.
Let's take a walk for a change of pace.
Refers to one's feelings or sensations, both physical and emotional. Slightly more tangible than 気分.
A phrase meaning 'I have a feeling that...' or 'it seems like...'. Used to express intuition or vague impressions.
I have a feeling it's going to rain.
Expressing that one is paying attention to something, being careful, or mindful.
Referring to one's drive, motivation, or will to do something.
The distinctive quality or feeling surrounding a person, place, or thing.
Refers to the atmosphere or mood of a place, situation, or person. Often used to describe the vibe of a restaurant, party, etc.
This restaurant has a nice atmosphere.
Means a sign, indication, or presence felt in the air. Often used for sensing someone's presence or a subtle change.
While 気 (ki) is the direct equivalent, using it alone to mean 'energy' or 'spirit' can sound overly philosophical or martial-arts-like. In daily conversation, use compounds like 気分, 気持ち, or 元気 (genki) depending on the nuance.
The character 気 appears in hundreds of common words and phrases. Learning a few key ones (気をつける, 気になる, 気分, 元気) will greatly improve your natural expression.
I feel restless.
His words are bothering me / on my mind.
I sense someone's presence.