Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common and neutral word for suicide is 自殺 (jisatsu). However, there are several other terms that carry different nuances, from formal/legal to literary or historical. This guide covers the main ways to express the concept of suicide, organized by context and nuance.
The most common, neutral way to say 'suicide' in Japanese, used in news, everyday conversation, and general contexts.
The standard word for suicide. It is a noun and can be used with する to mean 'commit suicide'. Neutral in tone, used in both formal and informal contexts.
彼は自殺した。
He committed suicide.
自殺予防のための相談窓口
A consultation service for suicide prevention
Used in official documents, police reports, or formal contexts.
A more formal or euphemistic term for suicide, often used in legal or official contexts. It literally means 'self-death'.
警察は自死と判断した。
The police determined it was a suicide.
Used in literature, historical contexts, or to describe a dramatic or noble suicide.
Often used for samurai or military suicides, implying a decision to die honorably. Can also be used in modern contexts for someone taking responsibility through death.
彼は責任を取って自決した。
He took responsibility and committed suicide.
Literally 'self-harm', but used specifically for suicide, especially in historical or samurai contexts. Often implies a violent method.
Referring to suicide in terms of statistics, social issues, or group behavior.
Means 'a person who committed suicide' or 'suicide victim'. Used in news and statistics.
去年の自殺者は３万人を超えた。
Last year, the number of suicides exceeded 30,000.
Suicide rate, used in statistical or sociological discussions.
日本の自殺率は高い。
Japan's suicide rate is high.
A suicide pact between lovers, a culturally specific concept in Japan.
Casual or euphemistic terms used online or among young people.
Even in slang contexts, 自殺 is the base word. However, online, people might use euphemisms or abbreviations.
自殺したい。
I want to commit suicide.
Literally 'to die', but in casual online speech it can be used to mean 'I want to die' or express suicidal feelings, though it's often hyperbolic.
Be careful with context; it can be a serious expression of distress or just casual exaggeration.
もう死にたい。
I just want to die.
Suicide is a sensitive topic in Japan as elsewhere. Use these terms with care. In many contexts, euphemisms or indirect language may be preferred. The word 自殺 is direct and can be jarring in casual conversation.
自殺 is the general term, while 自死 is often used by those who want to avoid the negative connotations of 殺 (kill). Some support groups and media outlets prefer 自死 to reduce stigma.
The samurai died by his own hand.