Translation guide
Refers to magic used for evil or selfish purposes, often contrasted with white magic. In Japanese, the most common term is 黒魔術, but related concepts like curses and sorcery are also relevant.
The general concept of black magic as supernatural power used for harm or selfish gain.
Specific acts of black magic intended to bring misfortune to someone.
The most common word for a curse or hex. Can be used as a noun or with をかける (to cast a curse).
Black magic as a category of spells in RPGs, anime, or fantasy literature.
Literally 'dark magic', commonly used in games and anime to denote black magic spells.
このゲームでは闇魔法が最強だ。
In this game, dark magic is the strongest.
While 黒魔術 is the direct translation, in everyday conversation about curses or hexes, 呪い is more natural. Reserve 黒魔術 for explicit contrast with white magic or in fantasy settings.
The standard term for black magic, directly contrasting with 白魔術 (white magic). Used in fantasy, occult, and gaming contexts.
彼は黒魔術を使って敵を倒した。
He used black magic to defeat his enemies.
Literally 'wicked technique', implies malevolent magic or sorcery. Often used in fiction.
その魔女は邪術で村人を苦しめた。
The witch tormented the villagers with black magic.
Refers to bewitching or mysterious magic, not necessarily evil but often associated with dark arts in context.
妖術を使う者は恐れられていた。
Those who practiced black magic were feared.
彼女は呪いをかけられた。
She had a curse put on her.
その呪いは代々続いた。
The curse continued for generations.
Sorcery or curse techniques, often used in occult or fantasy settings. More technical than 呪い.
彼は呪術で人を操った。
He controlled people with black magic.
Often refers to folk magic or spells, not necessarily evil, but can be used for harmful charms.
悪いまじないをかける。
To cast an evil spell.
Another term for black magic in fantasy contexts, similar to 黒魔術 but more casual.
黒魔法使いに憧れている。
I admire black mages.