Translation and Meaning of: 死刑 - shikei

The Japanese word 死刑 [しけい] carries a heavy and complex meaning, being a term that sparks both curiosity and reflection. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and usage in the context of the Japanese language and culture. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in understanding how this word is perceived in Japan, keep reading to discover fascinating and useful details.

In addition to explaining the literal translation of 死刑, we will address its use in different contexts, from legal discussions to representations in the media. Whether to enrich your vocabulary or to better understand Japanese society, this guide from Suki Nihongo — the best online Japanese dictionary — will help you uncover the nuances of this expression.

Meaning and translation of 死刑 (shikei): Death penalty.

The term 死刑 is composed of two kanji: 死 (shi), which means "death," and 刑 (kei), which translates to "punishment" or "penalty." Together, they form the word that equates to "death penalty." It is a legally charged and socially loaded term, often used in legal contexts, political debates, and news.

It's worth noting that 死刑 is not a word used casually in daily life. Its use is almost always associated with discussions about the judicial system, human rights, or high-profile criminal cases. In Japan, where the death penalty is still legal, the term appears quite frequently in reports and public debates.

Origin and Historical Context

The practice of capital punishment in Japan has ancient roots, dating back to feudal periods. The term 死刑, however, gained its current meaning with the modernization of the Japanese legal system during the Meiji Era (1868-1912). It was during this time that the country began to codify its criminal laws under Western influence.

Interestingly, while many countries abolished the death penalty in the 20th century, Japan maintained the practice — although executions are relatively rare. This historical context helps to understand why 死刑 remains a relevant term in the Japanese legal vocabulary to this day, unlike nations where the practice has been completely abandoned.

Cultural use and social perception

In Japanese popular culture, 死刑 occasionally appears in police dramas, mangas, and animes that address themes of justice and crime. However, its use tends to be more subdued than in Western productions — reflecting the generally reserved stance that the Japanese maintain towards the topic.

Opinion polls show that Japanese society is divided over the death penalty, and this division is reflected in the use of the word. While some defend it as 必要悪 (hitsuyou aku, "necessary evil"), others criticize it as 野蛮 (yaban, "barbarism"). This duality makes 死刑 a term loaded with meanings beyond the purely legal.

Tips for memorization and correct usage

To remember the meaning of 死刑, an effective strategy is to break down the kanjis: 死 (death) + 刑 (punishment) = death penalty. This direct association helps to retain the vocabulary. As for the pronunciation, しけい is relatively simple for Portuguese speakers, with no particularly challenging sounds.

It is important to note that 死刑 is a noun and should not be confused with verbs like 処刑する (shokei suru, "to execute"). When forming sentences, remember that it typically appears as an object or subject, as in "死刑を廃止する" (to abolish the death penalty) or "死刑に反対だ" (to be against the death penalty).

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 死罪 (shizai) - Death penalty
• 断頭台 (dantōdai) - guillotine
• 絞首刑 (kōshukei) - force
• 処刑 (shokei) - Execution can refer to any type of capital punishment.
• 死刑執行 (shikei shikkō) - Execution of the death penalty

死刑

Romaji: shikei
Kana: しけい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: death penalty; capital punishment

Meaning in English: death penalty;capital punishment

Definition: A punishment that penalizes a criminal for committing a mortal crime.

Example Sentences - (死刑) shikei

See below some example sentences:

死刑は人権侵害だと考えられています。

Shikei wa jinken shingai da to kangaerareteimasu

The death penalty is considered a violation of human rights.

The death penalty is considered a violation of human rights.

• 死刑 - Death penalty
• は - Topic particle
• 人権 - human rights
• 侵害 - violation
• だと - expression indicating an opinion or belief
• 考えられています - is considered