魂
also: たま
Meanings
The immaterial essence of a person, often in religious, philosophical, or emotional contexts. Can refer to the mind or heart as the seat of emotions.
His soul rests in peace.
I was moved by the soulful performance.
The inner drive, spirit, or life force that keeps one going. Often used when someone seems to have lost motivation or energy.
Even though I failed, my spirit isn't broken.
Lately he looks like the life has gone out of him.
something as precious as life itself; invaluable thing
Used figuratively to describe something one values as much as one's own soul or life. Often in expressions like 魂を売る or 魂を込める.
He sold his soul for money.
The artist poured his heart and soul into this work.
spirit of ...; mentality; soul of ...
Suffix-like use, usually as ～だましい, indicating the inherent spirit, ethos, or mindset characteristic of a group, nation, or concept. Common in compounds like 大和魂 (Yamato spirit) or 侍魂 (samurai spirit).
See also: 大和魂
He is a Japanese person with the Yamato spirit.
It's a work that exudes the spirit of a true craftsman.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉に魂を込めるto pour one's heart and soul into something
He pours his soul into every single piece he makes.
- 魂が抜けるto lose one's spirit; to become listless or dazed
After failing the exam, he looked as if he'd lost his soul.
- 魂を売るto sell one's soul; to compromise one's principles for gain
I don't want to sell my soul for money.
- 魂を揺さぶるto move someone deeply; to stir someone's very soul
The performance stirred the souls of everyone who heard it.
- 〈物〉に魂が宿るfor a soul or spirit to dwell within something
It's sometimes said that a soul dwells within an old doll.
Expressions
- 魂を入れ替えるturn over a new leaf; reform oneself; change one's ways
- 三つ子の魂百までa leopard cannot change its spots; the child is father to the man
- 仏作って魂入れずso near, yet so far; missing the final crucial step
- 一寸の虫にも五分の魂even a tiny bug will defend itself; tread on a worm and it will turn