Translation guide
The English word 'spirits' can refer to mood, supernatural beings, alcoholic drinks, or a sense of determination. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Expressing someone's mood or emotional state, often in phrases like 'in high spirits' or 'in low spirits'.
Commonly used to describe being in good spirits, energetic, or well. Often used in greetings and questions about well-being.
彼は今日とても元気だ。
He is in very high spirits today.
元気を出して。
Cheer up. / Keep your spirits up.
Refers to one's mood or feeling at a particular moment. Used in phrases like '気分がいい' (feel good) or '気分が悪い' (feel bad/unwell).
今日は気分がいい。
I'm in good spirits today.
彼女は気分が落ち込んでいる。
She is in low spirits.
Similar to 気分, but can also refer to feelings or sensations. Often used in expressions like '気持ちがいい' (feels good) or '気持ちが沈む' (feel depressed).
彼の言葉で気持ちが明るくなった。
His words lifted my spirits.
A more formal or literary term meaning depression of spirits, dejection, or discouragement.
失敗して意気消沈している。
He is in low spirits after failing.
Referring to ghosts, souls, or other supernatural entities.
General term for spirit, ghost, or soul. Can be used in religious or supernatural contexts.
彼は霊の存在を信じている。
He believes in the existence of spirits.
Specifically refers to a ghost or apparition, often of a deceased person. Common in horror stories.
Refers to a spirit of nature or a divine spirit, often in animistic or fantasy contexts.
Means soul or spirit as the essence of a person. Often used in philosophical or religious discussions.
Referring to strong alcoholic beverages like whiskey, vodka, etc.
The technical term for distilled spirits. Used in formal or descriptive contexts.
ウイスキーは蒸留酒の一種です。
Whiskey is a type of spirit.
Loanword from English, used in bars or liquor stores. Often seen in compound words like 'スピリッツ類'.
General term for alcohol, including spirits. Context usually clarifies the type. Not specific to distilled drinks.
Can refer to any alcoholic beverage, not just spirits. Use with context.
Referring to a person's spirit as their courage, determination, or attitude, as in 'team spirit' or 'fighting spirit'.
Refers to mind, spirit, or mentality. Used in compounds like 'チーム精神' (team spirit) or '闘争精神' (fighting spirit).
彼は強い精神の持ち主だ。
He has a strong spirit.
チーム精神を大切にしよう。
Let's value team spirit.
Means spirit, mettle, or strong will. Often used in motivational contexts.
Specifically means fighting spirit or competitive drive. Common in sports or battle contexts.
気分 (kibun) refers to mood or physical feeling at a moment. 気持ち (kimochi) is more about emotional feeling or sensation. 元気 (genki) means energetic, healthy, or in good spirits. Use 元気 for general well-being, 気分 for temporary mood, and 気持ち for deeper feelings.
気分が悪いので休みます。
I'm feeling unwell, so I'll rest.
彼の気持ちがわからない。
I don't understand his feelings.
元気ですか？
How are you? (Are you well?)
English phrases like 'in high spirits' should not be translated word-for-word. Use natural Japanese expressions like 元気だ or 気分がいい. Avoid literal translations like 高い精神, which sound unnatural.
その屋敷には幽霊が出るらしい。
They say spirits haunt that mansion.
It is said that the spirits of the forest protect us.
彼の魂は安らかに眠っている。
His spirit rests in peace.
このバーはスピリッツの種類が豊富だ。
This bar has a wide selection of spirits.
He likes strong spirits.
He has the spirit to face difficulties.
His fighting spirit hasn't waned.