Translation guide
The English word 'magic' covers supernatural power, conjuring tricks, and figurative charm. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
The use of supernatural forces to influence events, as in fantasy or occult contexts.
The most common and general term for magic as a supernatural power. Used in fantasy, fairy tales, and everyday conversation.
She turned the pumpkin into a carriage with magic.
Often implies a more systematic or occult form of magic, like sorcery or witchcraft. Can sound more serious or dark than 魔法.
Refers to magical power or energy itself, rather than the practice. Often used in games and fantasy.
Magic associated with spirits, bewitchment, or sorcery. Has a more eerie or folkloric nuance.
Sleight of hand, illusions, and stage magic performed as entertainment.
The standard term for magic tricks and sleight of hand. Used for both amateur and professional performances.
A special, captivating quality that makes something or someone enchanting.
The most common word for charm, appeal, or attractiveness. Used for people, places, and things.
A specific formula of words believed to have magical power.
A magic spell or incantation. Used in fantasy, fairy tales, and games.
魔法 (まほう) refers to supernatural magic, while 手品 (てじな) refers to magic tricks performed as entertainment. Using 魔法 for a card trick can sound like you believe it's real sorcery.
That's a magic trick, not real magic.
The loanword マジック is mainly used for stage magic or magic markers. For fantasy magic, use 魔法 or 魔術.
wave a magic wand
study ancient books of magic
I ran out of magic power.
狐の妖術に騙された。
I was deceived by a fox's magic.
He produced a dove with a magic trick.
My dream is to become a magician.
A more formal or literary term for magic tricks and illusions. Often used in the context of stage magic.
I went to see a magic show.
Loanword from English, often used for stage magic or as a casual term. Can also refer to magic markers.
Show me a magic trick!
This town has a unique magic.
Her smile has a certain magic.
Can be used figuratively to mean a captivating, almost supernatural power of attraction.
That music has a magic that draws people in.
Used figuratively in phrases like 魔法のように (like magic) to describe something wondrous.
It was a magical night.
cast a spell
Literally 'magic words', often used for phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' that have a seemingly magical effect.
'Thank you' is a magic word.
The magic of love
He performed magic at the party.