Translation guide
The act of summoning supernatural entities, performing magic tricks, or evoking images and feelings. This guide covers Japanese expressions for these distinct meanings.
To call forth ghosts, demons, or spirits through ritual or magic.
The standard term for summoning in fantasy, games, and occult contexts. Often used for summoning monsters or spirits.
a ritual to summon a demon
Specifically refers to calling down spirits, often in spiritualist or séance contexts.
to call forth the spirits of the dead through necromancy
A general verb meaning 'to call out' or 'to summon'. Used broadly, including for spirits.
to summon a spirit with a magic circle
Entertainment magic involving illusions, card tricks, and making things appear or disappear.
To bring something vividly to mind, often through description or art.
Means 'to make someone recall' or 'to evoke'. Used for memories or images.
That song conjures up memories of my youth.
A literary expression meaning 'to be reminiscent of' or 'to strongly evoke'. Often used in written descriptions.
Literally 'to call forth and awaken', used for evoking emotions or memories.
Do not use 召喚 (しょうかん) for stage magic. 召喚 is for supernatural summoning. Use 手品 (てじな) or 奇術 (きじゅつ) for magic tricks.
奇術師が観客を驚かせた。
The conjurer amazed the audience.
The scenery conjures up images of my hometown.
The scent conjured up memories of my childhood.