Translation guide
The concept of living forever or being remembered eternally. In Japanese, this is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and idiomatic phrases, with nuances ranging from physical eternal life to lasting fame.
The state of never dying, living forever in body or spirit.
The most direct term for physical immortality, often used in myths, fantasy, and philosophical contexts. Literally 'not dying'.
彼は不死の体を持っている。
He has an immortal body.
A common compound meaning 'eternal youth and immortality', often used in legends and pop culture.
不老不死の薬を探している。
I'm searching for the elixir of immortality.
Literally 'eternal life', a more poetic or religious expression.
永遠の命を得ることはできるのか。
Is it possible to obtain eternal life?
Means 'invulnerable' or 'immortal' in the sense of being unable to be killed, often used for legendary heroes or monsters.
その怪物は不死身だと言われている。
That monster is said to be immortal.
Being remembered forever through one's achievements or works.
Literally 'leave one's name', meaning to achieve lasting fame.
彼は歴史に名を残した。
He achieved immortality through history.
Literally 'undying fame', a formal expression for immortal renown.
その作品は不朽の名声を得た。
That work achieved immortal fame.
Means 'immortal' in the sense of being everlasting, often used for works of art or achievements.
不死 (fushi) is the basic term for 'not dying', often implying physical immortality. 不老不死 (furōfushi) adds the nuance of eternal youth. 永遠の命 (eien no inochi) is more spiritual or poetic, often used in religious contexts.
Directly translating 'immortality' as 不死 in all contexts can sound unnatural. For fame or legacy, use phrases like 名を残す or 不朽の名声.
This is an immortal masterpiece.