命
Meanings
The vital force or existence of a living being. Often used in emotional, philosophical, or dramatic contexts. Sometimes written as 生命.
See also: 生命
We must value life.
He lost his life in an accident.
lifetime; lifespan
The duration of a life. Used in expressions about the length or span of life.
This machine's lifespan is not long.
A human's lifetime is limited.
most important thing; foundation; core
Metaphorical use: the essence or central element of something. Often in phrases like 命の次に大事 or ～が命.
In this job, accuracy is the most important thing.
For him, family is the most important thing after life itself.
paired 'life' tattoos (archaic)
Archaic term for matching tattoos of the kanji 命 on the upper arms of a man and woman, symbolizing unwavering love. Not used in modern Japanese.
In the Edo period, it is said that men and women pledged their love with paired 'life' tattoos.
fate; destiny; karma (archaic)
Archaic sense referring to one's predetermined fate or karmic destiny. Replaced in modern Japanese by words like 運命.
In old texts, 命 can mean fate or destiny.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉の命を救うto save someone's life
The doctor saved the patient's life.
- 〈物〉が命~ is the most important, essential thing
For this restaurant, freshness is everything.
- 命を縮めるto shorten one's life
An unhealthy lifestyle shortens one's life.
- 命を落とすto lose one's life; to die
Many people lost their lives in the accident.
- 命を懸けるto risk one's life (for something)
He risked his life to save his friends.
- 命に別状はないnot life-threatening; out of danger
According to the test results, it's not life-threatening.