Translation and Meaning of: 神秘 - shinpi

The Japanese word 神秘[しんぴ] carries a deep and intriguing meaning, often associated with what is mysterious, sacred, or beyond human comprehension. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Whether you are studying Japanese or simply curious about this expression, understanding its cultural context and practical applications can enrich your vocabulary. Here at Suki Nihongo, our dictionary aims to provide accurate and useful information for language learners.

Meaning and Origin of 神秘 [しんぴ]

神秘[しんぴ] is composed of two kanji: 神 (shin), which means "god" or "spirit", and 秘 (hi), which can be translated as "secret" or "hidden". Together, they form a word that describes something divinely mysterious, shrouded in an air of mystery or sacredness. This combination is not random – it reflects how Japanese culture perceives what lies beyond rational explanation.

The term has roots in both Shinto and Buddhism, religions that value the invisible and the supernatural. While in the West "mystery" may have a more generic connotation, in Japan, 神秘 carries a stronger spiritual nuance. It is not surprising that it frequently appears in contexts such as temples, legends, or impressive natural phenomena.

Everyday and Cultural Lies

In daily life, the Japanese use 神秘 to describe everything from stunning landscapes to experiences that are out of the ordinary. An ancient forest, a traditional ritual, or even a surprising scientific discovery can be called 神秘. The word is not limited to the religious – it encompasses anything that evokes admiration and perplexity.

In the media, it is common to see it in animes, movies, and books that explore supernatural themes. Works like "The Tale of the Princess Kaguya" or certain episodes of "Mushishi" exemplify this concept well. The word also appears in the names of places considered sacred, like Miyajima Island, known for its floating torii and enigmatic atmosphere.

Tips for Memorizing and Using Correctly

An effective way to remember 神秘 is to associate it with images or situations that convey mystery. Think of a temple shrouded in fog or an ancestral artifact – these are classic examples of what the Japanese consider 神秘. Repeating the word in real contexts, such as when describing a place you've visited, also helps to internalize it.

It is important to note that while 神秘 can be translated as "mystery," it is not used for crimes or police enigmas. Its use is more related to what is sublime and inexplicable. Knowing this difference helps to avoid confusion and ensures that you use the word in the most natural way possible, just as a native speaker would.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

神秘性 (Shinpi-sei) - Quality of being mysterious.
不可思議 (Fukashigi) - Incomprehensible; something extraordinary that diverts from reality.
謎 (Nazo) - Enigma; something that is difficult to understand or solve.
秘密 (Himitsu) - Secret; something that is kept hidden.
神秘的 (Shinpi-teki) - Related to mystery; supernatural.
神秘的な現象 (Shinpi-teki na genjō) - Mysterious phenomena; unexplained events.
神秘的な世界 (Shinpi-teki na sekai) - Mysterious world; universe full of mysteries.
神秘的な力 (Shinpi-teki na chikara) - Mysterious power; a force that is difficult to understand or explain.
神秘的な存在 (Shinpi-teki na sonzai) - Mysterious existence; a being that is enigmatic.
神秘的な力の秘密 (Shinpi-teki na chikara no himitsu) - Secret of the mysterious power; hidden information about supernatural abilities.
神秘的な力の真髄 (Shinpi-teki na chikara no shinzui) - Essence of mysterious power; core of what makes an enigmatic force.
神秘的な力の源 (Shinpi-teki na chikara no minamoto) - Source of mysterious power; origin of supernatural abilities.