不朽

• Reading: ふきゅう
• Romaji: fukyu
• Kanji breakdown: 不 (fu) — negation; 朽 (kyuu/kuchi) — decay, rot, wither
• Pronunciation: /ɸɯ.kʲɯ.ː/

Meaning

Immortal; eternal; everlasting; imperishable. Describes works, achievements, or legacies that endure beyond time.

A na-adjective (often used prenominally as 不朽の) describing things that do not decay or fade with time. Commonly used for literary masterpieces (不朽の名作), historical achievements, and great works of art. Has an elevated, literary register. 不朽の名作 (immortal masterpiece) is its most common collocation.

Examples

1. シェイクスピアの作品は不朽の名作として世界中で読み継がれている。 Shakespeare's works continue to be read around the world as immortal masterpieces.
2. 彼の業績は時代を超えた不朽の価値を持つと高く評価されている。 His achievements are highly regarded as having enduring, timeless value.
3. 不朽の精神を持つ人物が歴史の転換点に現れることがある。 Individuals with an imperishable spirit sometimes appear at turning points in history.

Usage Guide

Context: literature, art, legacy, history, philosophy

Tone: positive

Origin & History

From 不 (fu, not) + 朽 (kyuu, decay/rot). Literally 'does not decay/rot.' The character 朽 vividly depicts organic material rotting away; its negation becomes a powerful image of eternal endurance. Used in Japanese literary and philosophical discourse from early periods.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated