Translation guide
The English word 'immortal' can refer to living forever, being remembered forever, or a divine being. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Describing a being that does not die or cannot be killed, such as a god, vampire, or mythical creature.
Literally 'undying body'. Commonly used for mythical beings, superheroes, or in fantasy contexts. Can also be used metaphorically for someone who seems unkillable.
吸血鬼は不死身だと言われている。
Vampires are said to be immortal.
彼は不死身のヒーローだ。
He is an immortal hero.
Means 'immortality' or 'not dying'. Often used in compound words or more formal/literary contexts.
不死の霊薬を求めて旅に出た。
He set out on a journey in search of an elixir of immortality.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'to possess eternal life'. More explanatory than a single word.
神々は永遠の命を持つ。
The gods possess immortal life.
Means 'ageless and deathless', often used in myths or legends about eternal youth and immortality.
不老不死の仙人の伝説がある。
There is a legend of an immortal sage.
Describing a person, work, or achievement that will be remembered forever.
Means 'indestructible' or 'imperishable'. Commonly used for legacies, records, or fame that will never fade.
彼の功績は不滅だ。
His achievements are immortal.
不滅の名曲を残した。
He left behind immortal masterpieces.
Means 'everlasting' or 'immortal', often used for works of art, literature, or fame.
A phrase meaning 'to remain forever'. More colloquial and flexible.
彼の名前は永遠に残るだろう。
His name will remain immortal.
Referring to a divine or supernatural being that lives forever.
The general word for 'god' or 'deity'. In context, implies immortality.
ギリシャ神話の神々は不死だ。
The gods of Greek mythology are immortal.
A Taoist immortal or mountain wizard in East Asian mythology. Often depicted as ageless and possessing supernatural powers.
不死身 (ふじみ) emphasizes an invulnerable body, often used for living beings. 不死 (ふし) is more abstract 'deathlessness'. 不滅 (ふめつ) is used for intangible things like fame or records that never perish.
The loanword イモータル is sometimes used in gaming or fantasy contexts, but it is not standard Japanese. Stick to native terms for natural expression.
It is passed down as an immortal masterpiece.
The immortal sage mastered the art of immortality.