Translation guide
The English word 'magic' covers supernatural power, conjuring tricks, and figurative charm. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
The use of supernatural forces to influence events, as in fantasy or occult contexts.
The most common and general term for magic as a supernatural power. Used in fantasy, fairy tales, and everyday conversation.
彼女は魔法でカボチャを馬車に変えた。
She turned the pumpkin into a carriage with magic.
魔法の杖を振る。
wave a magic wand
Often implies a more systematic or occult form of magic, like sorcery or witchcraft. Can sound more serious or dark than 魔法.
Refers to magical power or energy itself, rather than the practice. Often used in games and fantasy.
Magic associated with spirits, bewitchment, or sorcery. Has a more eerie or folkloric nuance.
Sleight of hand, illusions, and stage magic performed as entertainment.
The standard term for magic tricks and sleight of hand. Used for both amateur and professional performances.
彼は手品でハトを出した。
He produced a dove with a magic trick.
手品師になるのが夢です。
My dream is to become a magician.
A more formal or literary term for magic tricks and illusions. Often used in the context of stage magic.
Loanword from English, often used for stage magic or as a casual term. Can also refer to magic markers.
A special, captivating quality that makes something or someone enchanting.
The most common word for charm, appeal, or attractiveness. Used for people, places, and things.
この街には独特の魅力がある。
This town has a unique magic.
彼女の笑顔には魅力がある。
Her smile has a certain magic.
Can be used figuratively to mean a captivating, almost supernatural power of attraction.
Used figuratively in phrases like 魔法のように (like magic) to describe something wondrous.
A specific formula of words believed to have magical power.
A magic spell or incantation. Used in fantasy, fairy tales, and games.
呪文を唱える。
cast a spell
Literally 'magic words', often used for phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' that have a seemingly magical effect.
「ありがとう」は魔法の言葉だ。
'Thank you' is a magic word.
魔法 (まほう) refers to supernatural magic, while 手品 (てじな) refers to magic tricks performed as entertainment. Using 魔法 for a card trick can sound like you believe it's real sorcery.
それは手品です。魔法じゃありません。
That's a magic trick, not real magic.
The loanword マジック is mainly used for stage magic or magic markers. For fantasy magic, use 魔法 or 魔術.
魔法を信じますか？
Do you believe in magic?
愛の魔法
The magic of love
彼はパーティーで手品を披露した。
He performed magic at the party.
study ancient books of magic
I ran out of magic power.
狐の妖術に騙された。
I was deceived by a fox's magic.
I went to see a magic show.
マジックを見せて！
Show me a magic trick!
That music has a magic that draws people in.
It was a magical night.