Translation guide
The English word 'enigma' refers to something mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese, from describing a person or thing as an enigma to talking about riddles and unsolved mysteries.
Describing someone or something as an enigma, a puzzle that defies easy explanation.
The most common and versatile word for 'enigma' or 'mystery'. Can refer to a person, thing, or situation that is puzzling.
He is an enigmatic figure.
The case is still shrouded in mystery.
Means 'wonder' or 'mystery', often with a nuance of something fascinating and inexplicable. Used for people, phenomena, or experiences.
She has an enigmatic charm.
Life is an enigma.
Means 'incomprehensible' or 'unfathomable'. Stronger than 謎, emphasizing that something cannot be understood logically.
His behavior is an enigma.
Refers to 'mystery' in a profound, often spiritual or cosmic sense. Used for deep secrets of nature or existence.
To touch the enigma of the universe.
Referring to a literal riddle, conundrum, or brain-teaser.
The standard word for a riddle or guessing game. Often used in children's contexts.
I'll give you a riddle.
Can also mean a riddle or puzzle, especially in phrases like 謎を解く (solve a riddle).
Loanword from English 'puzzle'. Used for jigsaw puzzles, logic puzzles, etc. Not typically used for a person.
Referring to a famous unsolved case, historical puzzle, or enduring mystery.
Used for historical enigmas, unsolved crimes, etc. Often in compounds like 謎の事件 (mysterious incident).
How the pyramids were built remains an enigma.
Loanword for 'mystery'. Often used for crime mysteries or suspense stories.
Means 'bizarre' or 'mysterious and strange'. Used for eerie, supernatural enigmas.
謎 (nazo) is the most general and neutral word for 'enigma'. 不思議 (fushigi) implies a sense of wonder and fascination, often positive. 不可解 (fukakai) is more negative, stressing that something is beyond comprehension or irrational.
His mind is an enigma. (neutral)
Her smile is enigmatic. (fascinating)
His motives are an enigma. (incomprehensible)
The loanword エニグマ (enigma) exists but is rarely used outside of specific contexts like the Enigma machine or as a proper noun. For general use, stick to native Japanese words.
She remains an enigma to me.
The origin of the universe is an enigma.
He spoke in enigmas.
Can you solve this enigma?
This puzzle is difficult.
この事件は未解決のミステリーだ。
This case is an unsolved enigma.
怪奇現象の謎を追う。
To pursue the enigma of strange phenomena.