Translation guide
Expresses the idea of a different realm, dimension, or state of existence, often in fantasy, spiritual, or metaphorical contexts.
Referring to a literal other world, such as in isekai stories, afterlife, or parallel universes.
The standard term for 'another world' in fantasy and isekai contexts. Used for parallel universes, game worlds, etc.
He was reincarnated in another world.
I like other-world fantasy.
Literally 'a different world'. More general and can be used in non-fantasy contexts as well.
It's like another world.
Refers to the afterlife, the world beyond death. Common in spiritual or religious contexts.
My grandmother departed to the other world.
The underworld, realm of the dead. Used in mythology or fantasy.
Hades, god of the underworld
Describing a place or situation that feels utterly unfamiliar or unlike one's usual reality.
Emphasizes a sense of being in a totally different world, often used for striking contrasts in atmosphere or culture.
City life is another world to me.
Same as above, but slightly less idiomatic for metaphorical use. Still natural.
Literally 'different dimension'. Used for something that feels surreal or beyond normal understanding.
Referring to an inner world of thoughts, fantasies, or creative imagination.
One's inner world, the world of the heart/mind. Used for personal emotional or imaginative realms.
He's always shut away in his own little world.
A world of fantasy/imagination. Often used for daydreams or fictional worlds.
Dream world, either literal dreams or a utopian vision.
It was like something out of a dream world.
異世界 (isekai) is the go-to term for fantasy/isekai genres. 別世界 (bessekai) is more about a strikingly different environment or atmosphere, often metaphorical. 別の世界 (betsu no sekai) is the most literal 'another world' and can be used in any context but is less idiomatic for set phrases.
When saying something 'is another world' to mean it's amazing or completely different, using 別の世界 is fine, but 異世界 might sound like you're talking about a fantasy realm. Choose based on nuance.
The garden was beautiful, like another world.
Listening to his stories, I feel like I'm in another world.
あのレストランの料理は異次元の美味しさだ。
The food at that restaurant is out of this world.
As a child, I used to play in an imaginary world.