Translation guide
Expresses a supernatural or unexplained force, ability, or energy. Japanese has several common words depending on nuance: spiritual energy, magical power, divine might, or an uncanny ability.
A vague, unseen force or energy, often associated with nature, spirits, or the universe.
The most direct and neutral translation. 'Fushigi na chikara' literally means 'mysterious power' and can be used in many contexts, from fantasy to everyday wonder.
He moved the stone with a mysterious power.
A mysterious power dwells in this forest.
Spiritual power or energy, often associated with ghosts, spirits, or psychic phenomena. Common in occult or supernatural contexts.
Life force or energy (similar to Chinese 'qi'). Often used in martial arts, healing, or Eastern philosophy. Can imply a mysterious inner power.
Power derived from magic, spells, or wizardry, often in fantasy settings.
Magical power or mana. The standard term in fantasy, games, and anime for the energy used to cast spells.
The wizard used magical power to start a fire.
Literally 'power of magic'. A more descriptive phrase, often used in storytelling or when explaining magic to children.
Power originating from a deity, god, or divine being; often awe-inspiring and beyond human understanding.
Supernatural power of a Buddha or deity; divine power. Used in religious or mythological contexts, but also in fantasy for god-like abilities.
It is said that the monk flew through the sky using divine power.
Literally 'power of god/gods'. A straightforward phrase for divine might, often used in myths, games, or dramatic speech.
The power of God caused a miracle.
A strange, almost supernatural skill or talent that defies explanation, often in a non-magical context.
Mysterious ability. Used when someone has an uncanny knack for something, like always guessing correctly or having perfect intuition.
She has the mysterious ability to read people's minds.
Psychic power, ESP. Refers to abilities like telepathy, telekinesis, or clairvoyance. Often used in sci-fi or paranormal contexts.
不思議な力 is the broadest term, covering any unexplained force. 魔力 specifically refers to magic power used by sorcerers. 神通力 implies divine or transcendent power, often associated with Buddhas or gods.
In English, 'mysterious power' can be used loosely for charisma or influence. In Japanese, 不思議な力 is not typically used for personal charm; use 魅力 (みりょく) for 'charm' or カリスマ for 'charisma'.
霊力が強い人は幽霊を見ることができる。
People with strong spiritual power can see ghosts.
He focused his ki and split the rock.
This staff amplifies magical power.
By the power of magic, the pumpkin turned into a carriage.
He bent the spoon with psychic power.