Translation guide
The English word 'spiritual' covers a wide range of meanings, from religious and supernatural to deeply personal and non-material. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended nuance.
Describing something non-physical, inner, or related to the essence of a person
The most common and versatile word for 'spiritual' in the sense of mental, psychological, or inner life. Often used for spiritual health, growth, or support.
Spiritual growth is important.
He needs spiritual support.
Specifically refers to the spiritual as opposed to the physical, often in religious or supernatural contexts. More formal and less common in daily conversation.
Do you believe in spiritual beings?
Literally 'of the soul'. Used in poetic or deeply philosophical contexts. Not for everyday use.
a spiritual journey
Connected to faith, worship, or sacred matters
Involving spirits, ghosts, or unseen forces
The go-to word for spiritual in the sense of ghosts, spirits, or the occult.
She says she had a spiritual experience.
Means 'mystical' or 'mysterious'. Can be used for spiritual experiences that feel otherworldly or beyond understanding.
Describing an experience that touches the soul or gives a sense of transcendence
精神的 (seishinteki) is the safest choice for 'spiritual' in most everyday contexts, covering mental and inner life. 霊的 (reiteki) is specifically about spirits and the supernatural. 宗教的 (shūkyōteki) is explicitly religious. Choose based on whether you mean psychological, ghostly, or faith-based.
spiritual health (mental well-being)
spiritual phenomenon (ghostly)
spiritual ritual (religious)
The loanword スピリチュアル is common in casual talk about New Age topics, but it can sound flippant or out of place in serious discussions about religion or philosophy. Use 精神的 or 宗教的 instead.
宗教的な価値観が社会に影響を与える。
Spiritual values influence society.
It's important to have a spiritual heart.
Loanword from English, often used in New Age or alternative spirituality contexts. Common in media and casual talk about horoscopes, energy, etc.
I'm interested in spiritual things.
I felt a spiritual power at work.
The view was a spiritual experience.