Translation guide
The English word "deity" refers to a god or goddess, especially in a polytheistic context. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 神 (kami), but the appropriate term depends on the specific religious or cultural context, such as Shinto, Buddhism, or other traditions. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on the intended nuance.
To refer to a deity in a broad, non-specific sense, especially in polytheistic religions or mythology.
The most common and general word for a deity, god, or divine spirit in Japanese. It is used in Shinto, Buddhism, and everyday language. Can refer to a single god or gods in general.
It is said that there are eight million deities in Japan.
He doesn't believe in a deity.
A polite and affectionate form of 神, often used in prayers, when addressing a deity directly, or in children's language. Adds a sense of respect or familiarity.
I prayed to the deity.
Refers to the divine nature or status of a being; a more abstract or theological term for 'deity' or 'godhead'. Used in academic or religious discussions.
That person was later deified (given the status of a deity).
To refer specifically to a Shinto god or spirit, often associated with natural phenomena, ancestors, or sacred places.
The standard term for Shinto deities. Shinto gods are numerous and can be spirits of nature, ancestors, or deified historical figures.
This shrine is dedicated to the mountain deity.
A tutelary deity of a clan, family, or local community in Shinto. Often the guardian god of a specific region or lineage.
The guardian deity of one's birthplace. A specific type of Shinto deity believed to protect a person from birth.
To refer to a Buddhist deity, which may include buddhas, bodhisattvas, or protective gods.
Generally means 'Buddha', but can also refer to Buddhist deities or enlightened beings. Often used for deceased ancestors as well.
Many Buddhist deities are enshrined in the temple.
A category of Buddhist deities known as 'devas' or celestial beings, often protectors of Buddhism. Includes figures like Bishamonten or Benzaiten.
The deities of the Deva realm protect the Buddhist teachings.
To refer to a god from a specific non-Japanese religion or mythology, such as Greek, Hindu, or Norse gods.
The generic term can be used for gods of any religion. Often combined with the name or origin.
Zeus, the deity of Greek mythology
Plural form meaning 'gods' or 'deities', used when referring to a pantheon.
Chief deity or supreme god of a pantheon.
To discuss the nature of a deity, divine essence, or godhood in a philosophical or theological context.
Divinity, divine nature, or the quality of being a god. Used in theological or philosophical discussions.
He was believed to possess deity (divine nature).
Godhead, divinity, or the status of a deity. Often used in the context of deification.
神 (kami) is the general term for a deity, especially in Shinto. 神様 (kamisama) is a polite, affectionate form often used in prayers or when addressing a deity directly. 仏 (hotoke) refers to Buddhist figures, including Buddhas and sometimes deceased ancestors. Use 神 for most contexts, 神様 for respect, and 仏 specifically for Buddhism.
pray to a deity (general)
Dear God, please help me. (prayer)
teachings of the Buddha
In everyday conversation, Japanese speakers rarely use abstract terms like 神格 or 神性. Stick to 神 or 神様 unless you are in an academic or religious discussion. Using overly technical terms can sound unnatural.
That person is like a deity. (natural, using 神)
In ancient times, people worshipped many deities.
She is considered a deity in that culture.
私たちの氏神様はこの神社です。
Our local tutelary deity is enshrined at this shrine.
Offer a prayer of gratitude to the deity of one's birthplace.
the deities of Norse mythology
Zeus is the chief deity of Greek mythology.
皇帝は死後に神格を与えられた。
The emperor was granted deity status after death.