Translation guide
Expresses the act of giving up one's own interests, well-being, or life for the sake of others or a cause. Japanese has several verbs and phrases that convey self-sacrifice, ranging from literal self-sacrifice to more figurative devotion.
To die or risk death for a person, cause, or ideal.
Literally 'to offer one's life'. A common and natural way to express sacrificing one's life for someone or something.
He sacrificed his life for his country.
Literally 'to become a sacrifice'. Used when someone dies or suffers as a victim of circumstances or for a cause.
Many soldiers sacrificed themselves in the war.
Literally 'to throw away one's body'. A more dramatic or literary expression for sacrificing oneself physically, often implying a desperate or heroic act.
He sacrificed himself to save his comrades.
To give up one's own desires, time, or comfort for the benefit of others.
The most direct and common way to say 'sacrifice oneself' in a figurative sense. It covers giving up personal time, ambitions, or comfort.
She sacrificed herself for her family.
Literally 'to turn one's body into powder'. An idiomatic expression meaning to work extremely hard, often to the point of self-sacrifice, for someone else's sake.
A verb meaning 'to devote oneself' or 'to do everything one can' for someone or something. It implies selfless dedication.
A noun meaning 'self-sacrifice'. Often used in formal or psychological contexts.
「犠牲になる」 often implies becoming a victim of circumstances, while 「自分を犠牲にする」 is a more active, intentional act of self-sacrifice. Use 「自分を犠牲にする」 when you consciously choose to give something up.
He became a victim of the accident.
He sacrificed himself for his family.
My mother worked herself to the bone for her children.
彼は会社に尽くした。
He devoted himself to the company.
His actions are based on a spirit of self-sacrifice.