シェイプシフター
sheipushifutā
The English word 'shapeshifter' can be translated into Japanese as シェイプシフター (sheipushifutā).
The word シェイプシフター is used to describe a creature capable of changing its appearance. In more descriptive or formal contexts, you may also use the term 変身能力者.
Meaning: creature capable of changing its appearance (noun)
Which one should you use?
シェイプシフター is a transliteration of the English word, while 変身能力者 literally means 'person with transformation ability'.
How do you pronounce it?
sheipushifutā
Did you know?
- In Japanese mythology, the kitsune (fox) is the most famous shapeshifter. Legend says they gain the ability to take human form only after reaching a certain age, often 50 or 100 years.
- The word henshin (found in 変身能力者) is famously associated with the 'henshin sequence' in Japanese superhero shows like Kamen Rider. This is a choreographed transformation scene that often involves flashy lights and specific poses.
- The kanji 変 used in 変身能力者 to denote transformation is also the root for the Japanese word meaning 'strange' or 'unusual'.
Examples in context
- その物語にはシェイプシフターが登場します。Sono monogatari ni wa sheipushifutā ga tōjō shimasu.A shapeshifter appears in that story.
- シェイプシフターの能力はとても不思議です。Sheipushifutā no nōryoku wa totemo fushigi desu.The power of the shapeshifter is very mysterious.
- 彼はシェイプシフターという生き物だそうです。Kare wa sheipushifutā to iu ikimono da sō desu.I heard he is a creature called a shapeshifter.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a fantasy movie.
- 美咲 Misakiこの映画の敵はシェイプシフターなの？Kono eiga no teki wa sheipushifutā nano?Is the enemy in this movie a shapeshifter?
- 大翔 Hirotoうん、姿を変える強力なやつだよ。Un, sugata o kaeru kyōryoku na yatsu dayo.Yeah, it's a powerful one that changes its shape.
- 美咲 Misaki大翔くん、それって怖くない？Hiroto-kun, sorette kowakunai?Hiroto, isn't that scary?
- 大翔 Hiroto少し怖いけど、すごくかっこいいよ。Sukoshi kowai kedo, sugoku kakkoii yo.It's a bit scary, but it's very cool.
