1.
suicide
A euphemistic term for taking one's own life. Preferred in journalism, government documents, and support organizations as a less blunt alternative to 自殺. Increasingly used in media style guides in Japan.
友人が自死した。
A friend died by suicide.
自死遺族への支援が必要だ。
Support for families bereaved by suicide is needed.
報道では「自殺」ではなく「自死」という表現が使われることが増えている。
In media reporting, the term 'jishi' is increasingly used instead of 'jisatsu.'
USAGE: 自死 is a gentler alternative to 自殺. The word 自殺 literally contains 殺す (to kill), which can feel harsh or judgmental. 自死 uses 死 (death) instead, framing the act more neutrally.
Many bereavement support groups and government agencies in Japan have adopted 自死 as the preferred term. Some media organizations now use it in their style guides.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 自死遺族: families bereaved by suicide
- 自死予防: suicide prevention
- 自死を選ぶ: to choose to end one's life
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 自死: suicide (euphemistic, compassionate framing)
- 自殺: suicide (direct, standard term)
- 自害: suicide (historical/literary, often refers to samurai ritual)