錬金術
Meanings
1
Historical or fantasy practice of transmuting base metals into gold, or seeking a universal elixir. Also used metaphorically for any seemingly magical transformation.
In medieval Europe, alchemy was actively studied.
He turned his idea into a fortune, as if by alchemy.
2
way of making money; moneymaker
Figurative extension: a method or scheme for generating wealth, often with a connotation of being clever or slightly dubious. Not a literal reference to alchemy.
For him, day trading stocks is modern-day alchemy.
Usage patterns
- 錬金術を行うto practice alchemy
Medieval scholars practiced alchemy in an attempt to create gold.
- 〈事〉の錬金術a moneymaking trick or scheme related to ~
He built his fortune through his money-making tricks in investment.
- 錬金術で〈物〉を作るto create something through alchemy
He tried to create gold through alchemy, but failed.