不思議 — meaning in English: Strange

fushigi · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for wonder

支出

shishutsu

褒賞

hōshō

港

minato

妊娠

ninshin

不思議

fushigi

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 不思議 (fushigi) when experiencing something unusual or difficult to explain. For example, when discussing a mysterious event or a peculiar piece of art, one might say, 'それは不思議ですね！' (That is strange!). It's also common in casual conversations among friends when reacting to surprising news or situations.

Synonyms & nuances

While 不思議 (fushigi) conveys a sense of strangeness that evokes curiosity or wonder, you might choose the word 奇妙 (kimyō) when referring to something that is merely bizarre or odd. Thus, fushigi is more about the mysterious nature of an occurrence, while kimyō emphasizes its peculiarity.

Culture

The word 不思議 (fushigi) is composed of two kanji: 不 (fu), meaning 'not,' and 思議 (shigi), meaning 'to think' or 'to consider.' This etymology reflects a sense of wonder, as if something is beyond comprehension. In Japanese culture, fushigi is often associated with the supernatural, making it a popular term in folklore and urban legends.

FAQ

Q.How do you use 不思議 in a sentence?

You can use 不思議 in sentences to express amazement or confusion about something unusual. For example, 'この現象は不思議だ' (This phenomenon is strange).

Q.Is 不思議 used more in spoken or written Japanese?

不思議 is commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese. It appears frequently in literature, conversations, and even pop culture, making it a versatile word.

Q.What are common mistakes with 不思議?

A common mistake is using 不思議 to describe something ordinary. Remember, it should convey a sense of the unusual or mysterious, not just anything that is unfamiliar.

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