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Glossary term

Qi

Chinese: 气 / 灵气Literal: energy / spiritual energy

What does Qi mean?

Vital or spiritual energy. In cultivation fantasy it fuels techniques, formations, pills, and realm breakthroughs.

Part 1

Qi can be life force, breath, spiritual energy, or world energy depending on the setting.

Part 2

In fiction it often powers movement arts, sword light, defensive barriers, alchemy, formations, and breakthroughs.

Part 3

Writers should decide whether qi is abundant, scarce, polluted, elemental, or tied to geography.

Quick FAQ

What is the simple meaning of Qi?

Vital or spiritual energy. In cultivation fantasy it fuels techniques, formations, pills, and realm breakthroughs.

How is Qi used in Chinese fantasy worldbuilding?

Qi can be life force, breath, spiritual energy, or world energy depending on the setting.

What terms are related to Qi?

Cultivation, Spiritual Root, Formation, Spirit Stone