Translation guide
The English word 'mortal' has two main uses: as an adjective meaning 'subject to death' (opposite of immortal) and as a noun meaning 'a human being' (often in contrast to gods or immortals). This guide covers natural Japanese ways to express these concepts.
Describing a living being that will eventually die, as opposed to immortal or divine beings.
Literally 'should die', this is the most direct equivalent for 'mortal' in the sense of 'destined to die'. It is somewhat formal and often used in philosophical or literary contexts.
Humans are mortal beings.
Means 'cannot escape death'. A more descriptive way to express mortality, often used in serious or literary contexts.
All living things are mortal.
Literally 'not immortal'. A simple, colloquial way to express mortality by negating immortality. Useful in casual conversation.
We are mortal.
Means 'having a finite life'. A more roundabout way to express mortality, emphasizing the limited nature of life.
Humans have a finite lifespan (are mortal).
Referring to a human, especially in contrast to gods, immortals, or supernatural beings.
The standard word for 'human being'. It is neutral and widely used in all contexts, including when contrasting with gods or immortals.
The gods watch over mortals.
A more general word for 'person'. It can be used in similar contexts but is less specific than 人間. Often used in set phrases.
Literally 'one who should die'. A more dramatic or literary way to refer to mortals, often used in fantasy or mythological contexts.
The immortals mock the mortals.
Describing something that causes death, such as a wound, blow, or sin. This is a less common but important nuance.
Means 'fatal' or 'lethal'. This is the most natural way to express 'mortal' in the sense of causing death. It is a na-adjective.
He received a mortal wound.
Literally 'life-taking'. A more colloquial or dramatic way to say 'fatal'. Often used for mistakes or decisions that lead to ruin.
That mistake proved mortal.
A technical term meaning 'lethal' or 'mortal', often used in medical or scientific contexts (e.g., lethal dose).
He was given a mortal dose of poison.
While 'mortal' can be translated as 死すべき者, this sounds very literary and is rarely used in everyday Japanese. In most cases, simply use 人間 or 人 to refer to humans in contrast to gods or immortals.
We are mere mortals.
致命的な is the standard word for 'fatal' and can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. 命取りの is more colloquial and often implies a critical mistake or flaw that leads to failure or death. It is less formal and more dramatic.
There is a great gap between gods and mortals.