Translation guide
The English adjective 'indestructible' describes something that cannot be destroyed or is extremely durable. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through adjectives, verbs, and descriptive phrases, with the most common and natural options being 壊れない (kowarenai) and 不滅の (fumetsu no).
Describing objects, materials, or things that cannot be broken, damaged, or destroyed physically.
The most common and natural way to say 'indestructible' for physical objects. It literally means 'unbreakable' or 'not breaking'. Used for everyday items, toys, tools, etc.
このおもちゃは壊れない。
This toy is indestructible.
I'm looking for an indestructible phone case.
Means 'sturdy' or 'solidly built'. Often used for furniture, buildings, or equipment. Implies high durability rather than literal indestructibility.
この机はとても頑丈だ。
This desk is really indestructible (sturdy).
Similar to 頑丈な but slightly more everyday. Means 'durable', 'strong', or 'hard-wearing'. Often used for clothing, bags, or everyday items.
このバッグは丈夫で長持ちする。
This bag is indestructible and lasts a long time.
Literally 'there is no way to break it'. Emphasizes that the object is so sturdy that breaking it is impossible. More emphatic than 壊れない.
この金庫は壊しようがない。
This safe is indestructible (there's no way to break it).
A formal or literary term meaning 'indestructible' or 'imperishable'. Rarely used in everyday speech. Often appears in fantasy or technical contexts.
不壊の盾
an indestructible shield
Describing concepts, spirits, reputations, or abstract things that cannot be destroyed or ended.
The standard term for 'indestructible' in an abstract or metaphorical sense, such as 'immortal soul', 'eternal fame', or 'indestructible spirit'. Literally 'not perishing'.
Means 'everlasting' or 'immortal', often used for works of art, achievements, or reputations that stand the test of time. More about lasting fame than physical indestructibility.
不朽の名作
an indestructible masterpiece (a timeless classic)
Means 'eternal'. Can be used for abstract concepts like love or life, implying they cannot be destroyed. Less direct than 不滅 but very common.
永遠の命
indestructible life (eternal life)
Describing characters, items, or objects in games, anime, or stories that cannot be damaged or destroyed.
Means 'invincible' or 'unbeatable'. Very common in gaming and anime contexts for characters or items that cannot be harmed.
Literally 'does not receive damage'. A straightforward description often used in game mechanics or ability descriptions.
この盾はダメージを受けない。
This shield is indestructible (takes no damage).
Means 'immortal' or 'invulnerable', often used for characters who cannot die. Literally 'undying body'. Common in fantasy and manga.
不死身の戦士
an indestructible warrior
壊れない (kowarenai) directly means 'unbreakable' and is the closest to 'indestructible'. 頑丈 (ganjou) emphasizes structural sturdiness, while 丈夫 (joubu) implies durability and long-lasting quality. For everyday objects, 壊れない is the most natural choice when you want to say something cannot be broken.
While 破壊できない (hakai dekinai) literally means 'cannot destroy', it sounds unnatural as an adjective for objects. It is better used in verbal phrases like 'この壁は破壊できない' (This wall cannot be destroyed) rather than as a descriptor. Stick to 壊れない or 不滅 for attributive use.