A class of supernatural beings in folklore such as vengeful spirits, spectres, or yokai. In modern use, often refers broadly to ghosts or monsters.
古い村の伝説には物の怪が夜に村を歩くとある。
An old village legend says that spirits walk through the village at night.
彼女は急に変わった行動を取り、まるで物の怪に取り憑かれたかのようだった。
She suddenly behaved strangely, as if possessed by a spirit.
昔話や怪談で物の怪が登場することが多い。
Folktales and ghost stories often feature supernatural creatures.
アニメや小説では『物の怪』という表現がよく使われる。
The term 'mono no ke' is often used in anime and novels.