Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'vengeful spirit' is deeply rooted in folklore and religion. The most common term is 怨霊 (onryō), referring to a spirit that returns to harm the living due to unresolved anger or a grudge. Other terms exist with nuanced differences in nature and context.
A spirit of a person who died with a grudge and returns to cause harm, often in traditional stories or beliefs.
The standard term for a vengeful spirit in Japanese folklore and religion. It implies a spirit that actively seeks revenge or causes calamities due to lingering resentment.
This shrine was built to appease a vengeful spirit.
He was possessed by a vengeful spirit.
A broader term for a ghost or spirit of the dead, which can be vengeful depending on context. Not exclusively vengeful, but often used in horror contexts.
Rumor has it that a vengeful spirit haunts the castle.
Literally 'evil spirit', this can refer to any malevolent spirit, including vengeful ones. It emphasizes the harmful nature rather than the backstory of a grudge.
It seems like he's possessed by an evil spirit.
Refers to the deep-seated grudge or resentment itself, which can manifest as a vengeful spirit. Sometimes used metonymically for the spirit.
A powerful vengeful spirit lingers in that place.
A ghost that seeks revenge, often depicted in movies, games, or urban legends, like the typical 'grudge' ghost.
A metaphorical or literary 'vengeful spirit' as a driving force or personified concept, not a literal ghost.
Literally 'demon of revenge', used to describe someone consumed by the desire for vengeance, acting like a vengeful spirit.
He turned into a vengeful spirit (consumed by revenge).
Literally 'lump of grudge', a metaphorical expression for a person or thing filled with vengeful feelings.
While 復讐 (revenge) + 霊 (spirit) might seem logical, it's not a common or natural term. Use 怨霊 or 復讐の鬼 instead.
怨霊 (onryō) specifically implies a grudge and intent to harm. 幽霊 (yūrei) is a general ghost, often sad or lost, not necessarily vengeful. In horror, 怨霊 is scarier.
A vengeful spirit comes out of the videotape.
Her heart is a vengeful spirit (full of resentment).