Translation guide
The concept of eternal youth and long life, often appearing in mythology, folklore, and traditional wishes. In Japanese, this is typically expressed through set phrases or idiomatic expressions rather than a single word.
Expressing the idea of never aging and living a very long life, often as a mythical or idealized state.
A four-character compound (yojijukugo) directly meaning 'perpetual youth and longevity'. It is the most direct equivalent and is used in both everyday and literary contexts.
不老長寿の秘薬を求めて旅に出た。
He set out on a journey in search of an elixir of perpetual youth and longevity.
Literally 'no aging, no death'. This phrase emphasizes both eternal youth and immortality, often used in fantasy or mythological contexts.
不老不死の力を手に入れた。
He obtained the power of eternal youth and immortality.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'longevity and youth'. It is less idiomatic but can be used when explaining the concept in simpler terms.
長寿と若さを保つ方法はあるのだろうか。
Is there a way to maintain longevity and youth?
Used in greetings, toasts, or well-wishes for someone's health and long life, often on celebratory occasions.
A common phrase meaning 'to pray for perpetual youth and longevity'. It is used in formal wishes or blessings.
皆様の不老長寿をお祈りいたします。
I pray for everyone's perpetual youth and longevity.
Means 'to celebrate longevity'. While it doesn't explicitly include youth, it is often used in contexts where long life is the focus, and youthfulness is implied.
祖父の長寿を祝ってパーティーを開いた。
We held a party to celebrate our grandfather's longevity.
Referring to a substance or magic that grants eternal youth and long life, common in stories and legends.
A set phrase meaning 'elixir of perpetual youth and longevity'. It is used in tales and fantasy.
その仙人は不老長寿の霊薬を作ったと言われている。
It is said that the hermit created an elixir of perpetual youth and longevity.
Literally 'medicine of no aging and no death'. A more colloquial way to refer to an immortality potion.
不老不死の薬を探し求める物語。
A story about seeking the medicine of eternal youth and immortality.
不老長寿 focuses on youth and long life, while 不老不死 emphasizes immortality and never dying. In many contexts they overlap, but 不老不死 is stronger and more fantastical.
When wishing someone perpetual youth and longevity, the phrase 不老長寿をお祈りします is formal and respectful. In casual conversation, you might simply say いつまでも若々しく長生きしてください (Please stay youthful and live long).