Translation guide
The English phrase 'body and soul' expresses totality, completeness, or the union of physical and spiritual aspects. In Japanese, this concept is conveyed through various expressions depending on context, such as emphasizing wholehearted dedication, the entirety of one's being, or the mind-body connection.
Expressing that someone does something with their entire self, leaving nothing out.
Literally 'with whole body and whole spirit'. A common, emphatic phrase meaning to devote oneself entirely to something.
彼は全身全霊でその仕事に打ち込んだ。
He devoted himself body and soul to that work.
Literally 'both body and heart/mind'. Used to describe giving or dedicating oneself completely, often in emotional or relational contexts.
Referring to the whole person, including both physical and non-physical elements.
A straightforward, neutral phrase meaning 'body and mind/spirit'. Suitable for philosophical or descriptive contexts.
肉体と精神のバランスが大切だ。
A balance between body and soul is important.
Directly translating 'body and soul' as 身体と魂 can sound overly dramatic or religious in everyday conversation. Use 全身全霊で or 身も心も for natural expressions of wholehearted dedication.
彼女は身も心も彼に捧げた。
She gave herself to him body and soul.
Literally 'both mind and body'. Often used to describe a state of being healthy or devoted in both aspects.
心身ともに健康だ。
I am healthy in body and soul.
Literally 'one heart, same body'. A four-character idiom expressing a deep union, as if two people share one body and soul. More literary or dramatic.
彼らは一心同体の仲だ。
They are together body and soul.
Literally 'body and soul'. A direct translation, but can sound slightly religious or poetic. Use in contexts discussing the soul explicitly.
身体と魂は切り離せない。
Body and soul cannot be separated.
A compound word meaning 'mind and body'. Often used in set phrases like 身心一如 (body and mind as one). More formal or technical.
身心一如の境地を目指す。
Aim for a state where body and soul are one.