自杀 — meaning in English: suicide

zìshā · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for suicide

该项目

gāi xiàngmù

锁

suǒ

自杀

zìshā

增值税

zēngzhí shuì

个人

gèrén

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Mandarin Chinese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

formal common

Usage

The term 自杀 (zìshā) is often used in serious discussions surrounding mental health, suicide prevention, or when referring to tragic events in news media. It is commonly encountered in hospital settings, counseling sessions, or literature that addresses emotional struggles.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 殉道 (xùn dào), which refers specifically to martyrdom or sacrificing oneself for a cause. While 自杀 (zìshā) denotes personal choice to end one's life, 殉道 (xùn dào) carries connotations of honor or purpose, often in a historical or religious context. Choose 自杀 (zìshā) when discussing personal despair rather than martyrdom.

Culture

自杀 (zìshā) combines the characters 自 (zì), meaning 'self,' and 杀 (shā), meaning 'to kill.' This term reflects a somber aspect of Chinese culture, where discussions about mental health and suicide are increasingly becoming more open due to growing awareness and advocacy. Historically, the perception of self-inflicted death has evolved, shifting from a taboo subject to one that denotes a complex interplay of societal pressures and individual struggles.

FAQ

Q.What does 自杀 mean in English?

自杀 (zìshā) translates to 'suicide' in English, referring to the act of intentionally taking one's own life.

Q.How do you use 自杀 in a sentence?

You can use 自杀 in contexts like '他选择了自杀' (Tā xuǎnzéle zìshā) which means 'He chose to commit suicide.' It's essential to approach this topic sensitively.

Q.Is 自杀 a common word in Mandarin?

Yes, 自杀 is a common term, particularly in discussions related to mental health and societal issues. It’s important to note the context in which you use it, as it is a serious subject.

Learn mandarin chinese with Maspeak →

Chinese (Mandarin) 2000