expression, godan verb (-mu)
hold one's life dear; be reluctant to die
A set phrase meaning to value one's life and avoid risking it, often used in negative or admonishing contexts.
彼は命を惜しんで危険な仕事を断った。
He valued his life and turned down the dangerous job.
命を惜しむなら、今すぐ逃げ
If you value your life, you'd better run away now.