"Enchant" vs. "Enhance" (p. 33, et al.) - recommend "Imbue"


Combat & Magic


Just wanted to throw in a heartfelt suggestion that Pathfinder go back to the 3.5 convention of using "enchant" to refer to the School of Enchantment, and possibly to use the term "enhance" for making magic items -- or, FAR better still, coin a new term that won't be confused with "enhancement bonuses;" I'd recommend "imbue" or something similar. (See description of wizard's bonded item, and "enchanting" it for half price.)

Yes, I know it seems nitpicky, but there's no reason to descend back into the 1e muddle of vague terminology: thankfully, there is no more "enchant an item" spell -- it's been replaced by a far superior creation feat system -- and schools of magic actually have meaning now (unlike in 1e). I'd like the terminology to be equally clear and specific.

"Enhance" is a poor substitute, because of the bonus type name, but "imbue" to the best of my knowledge is used only in the spell imbue spell ability, and magic items are, in fact, masterwork items imbued with magical abilities.


I agree, "enchant" needs to refer to Enchantment, the school of magic.

Sovereign Court

Pathfinder Battles Case Subscriber; Pathfinder Maps, Starfinder Adventure Path, Starfinder Maps, Starfinder Roleplaying Game, Starfinder Society Subscriber; Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Charter Superscriber

I like the term 'imbue' a lot. Gets at what's happening without any confusion with other terms.

Liberty's Edge

Hey, if it helps keep things clear I'll throw my hat in.


* Shameless self-bump *

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