Translation and Meaning of: 生死 - seishi

The Japanese word 生死 [せいし] carries significant weight in both the language and culture of Japan. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday contexts and deeper situations. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about expressions that reflect life philosophies, understanding 生死 can be an interesting step.

In addition to uncovering the literal translation, let's analyze how this word is perceived by native speakers, its frequency in conversations, and even its use in media such as animes and literature. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides valuable details for those who want to go beyond the surface.

Meaning and origin of 生死 [せいし]

生死 is composed of two kanji: 生 (life) and 死 (death). Together, they form a term that represents the duality of human existence. The reading せいし (seishi) is the most common, although there are variations depending on the context. This word is not limited to describing just the life cycle, but also carries philosophical and even spiritual connotations.

In Japanese culture, 生死 is often associated with Buddhist concepts, such as the cycle of rebirth and the impermanence of things. Unlike Western words that separate life and death as absolute opposites, in Japan, they are seen as parts of the same flow. This explains why 生死 appears in religious texts, poems, and even in discussions about medical ethics.

Everyday and cultural use of 生死

Despite its philosophical weight, 生死 is not a word used casually in everyday conversations. It appears more in formal, literary, or academic contexts. For example, in discussions about bioethics or in works that explore existential themes. Its indiscriminate use can sound dramatic or inappropriate, so it's important to use it appropriately according to the situation.

In animes and mangas, 生死 frequently appears in plots involving life or death conflicts, such as in "Attack on Titan" or "Death Note." In these narratives, the word takes on an almost epic tone, emphasizing the gravity of the characters' choices. Outside of fiction, it also appears in proverbs and expressions that reflect Japanese popular wisdom about the transience of life.

Tips for memorizing and understanding 生死

An effective way to fixate on 生死 is to associate it with images or concepts that are already part of your repertoire. Think of yin and yang, where life and death complement each other. Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences that use the word in real contexts, such as "生死をかける" (to risk one's life). This helps to internalize not only the meaning but also the emotional nuance behind it.

Interestingly, the kanji 生死 are so fundamental that they appear in other useful combinations. For example, 生年月日 (date of birth) and 死亡 (death). Recognizing these patterns makes it easier to learn related vocabulary. Remember: mastering 生死 goes beyond translation; it's about understanding how the Japanese perceive their own existence.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 生命 (Seimei) - Life, existence
• 死生 (Shisei) - Life and death
• 生き死に (Ikishini) - Live and die; condition of life and death
• 生と死 (Sei to Shi) - Life and death; existential opposites
• 生きることと死ぬこと (Ikiru koto to shinu koto) - The act of living and the act of dying

生死

Romaji: seishi
Kana: せいし
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Life and death

Meaning in English: life and death

Definition: to live and to die.

Example Sentences - (生死) seishi

See below some example sentences:

生死をかける

Seishi wo kakeru

It means "risking one's life" or "throwing everything on the table".

Be life -and -death

• 生 - Life
• 死 - Death
• を - object particle
• かける - Bet, risk