Translation and Meaning of: 殺す - korosu

The Japanese word 殺す[ころす] is a verb loaded with meaning and impact, often associated with extreme actions. If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding its correct use, cultural context, and nuances is essential. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic meaning to how this word is perceived in Japan, including tips for memorization and real-life examples of usage.

Significado e uso de 殺す[ころす]

"殺す" [ころす] is a Japanese verb that means "to kill" or "to assassinate." It is used in literal contexts, such as in crimes or violent situations, but can also appear in more colloquial or hyperbolic expressions. For example, in the phrase "時間を殺す" (jikan wo korosu), the literal translation would be "to kill time," but the actual meaning is "to pass time."

It is important to note that, due to its strong nature, the use of 殺す in everyday conversations is rare and usually avoided. Instead, the Japanese prefer softer terms or euphemisms, depending on the context. This linguistic sensitivity reflects cultural values that prioritize harmony and indirectness.

Origem e escrita do kanji 殺

The kanji 殺 is composed of the radical 殳 (weapon) and 朮 (root), suggesting a historical connection with violence or lethal action. Its origin dates back to ancient Chinese, where it already carried the meaning of "destroy" or "eliminate." Over time, the character was incorporated into Japanese with the same semantic weight, maintaining its significance to this day.

It is worth mentioning that 殺す is the most direct form of the verb, but it also appears in compounds like 殺人 (satsujin, homicide) or 自殺 (jisatsu, suicide). These variations show how the radical 殺 is used in different contexts, always maintaining its essence related to death.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 殺す is to associate it with specific situations where its use is inevitable, such as in news or dramatic narratives. Avoid using it in casual conversations, as it can sound aggressive or inappropriate. Instead, opt for alternatives like 亡くす (nakusu, to lose someone) when referring to natural deaths.

Another tip is to practice with real examples of Japanese media, such as dramas or manga, where the term appears more frequently. Observing how characters use 殺す in dialogues helps to understand its emotional and cultural impact. Remember: mastering a word goes beyond translation—it's essential to grasp its weight in communication.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

殺害する (satsugai suru) - assassinate; to kill someone, usually in a premeditated way.
殺める (ayumeru) - to make someone die; to kill, in a more general sense
殺す (korosu) - kill; act of taking the life of something or someone
殺戮する (satsuriku suru) - massacre; to kill on a large scale, usually in an inhumane manner
虐殺する (gyakusatsu suru) - exterminate; kill in the context of genocide or massacre