Translation and Meaning of: 犠牲 - gisei

The Japanese word 犠牲 (ぎせい, gisei) carries significant weight both in the language and in the culture of Japan. If you are looking for its meaning, translation, or how it is used in everyday life, this article will explore all of that in a clear and straightforward manner. Additionally, we will understand how this word is perceived by Japanese people and in what contexts it appears most frequently.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 犠牲 is defined as "sacrifice" or "victim," but its usage goes beyond the literal sense. It appears in discussions about society, history, and even in narratives of animes and movies. If you want to truly learn Japanese, understanding words like this is essential to grasp nuances that automatic translators simply overlook.

Meaning and use of 犠牲 in everyday Japanese

"犠牲" is a word that can be used both to refer to literal sacrifices, such as in ancient rituals, and to modern situations where someone gives up something for a greater good. For example, a worker who dedicates extra hours to their job can be described as "犠牲になった" (became a victim/sacrifice). This double meaning makes the word versatile, yet emotionally charged.

In social contexts, 犠牲 often appears in debates about inequality or crises. Newspapers may use expressions like "戦争の犠牲者" (victims of war) or "経済成長の犠牲" (the sacrifice of economic growth). It is noticeable here how the term is not neutral — it evokes empathy or criticism, depending on the tone of the discussion.

The origin and the kanjis of 犠牲

Analyzing the kanjis separately, 犠 (gi) and 牲 (sei) have ancient roots linked to religious rituals. The first character, 犠, contains the radical 牛 (ushi, "cow"), indicating its relation to sacrificial animals. Meanwhile, 牲, also with the radical 牛, reinforces the idea of offering. Originally, the word was associated with Shinto and Buddhist ceremonies, where lives were dedicated to the gods.

Over time, 犠牲 has gained a broader meaning, but the connection to the idea of "forced offering" remains. This explains why, even in secular contexts, the word retains a connotation of involuntary loss or unfair suffering. Japanese students may remember the term better by recalling that its kanji "holds" the image of an ox taken to the altar.

Sacrifice in Japanese culture and media

In Japanese narratives, 犠牲 is a recurring theme. Animes like "Attack on Titan" or "Fullmetal Alchemist" explore characters who sacrifice themselves for ideals or for others — often with tragedies involved. This trope reflects the collectivist values of Japanese society, where the individual may be placed second to the group.

Outside of fiction, the word also appears in political or business speeches, not always in a positive light. Phrases like "犠牲を強いる" (imposing sacrifices) can generate controversies, especially when referring to workers or minorities. Understanding these nuances helps to decipher not only the language but also the underlying messages of communication in Japan.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

犠牲 (Gisei) - Sacrifice
犠牲者 (Giseisha) - Victim; person who suffered the sacrifice
犠牲者たち (Giseisha-tachi) - Victims (plural)
犠牲者達 (Giseisha-tachi) - Victims (plural, alternative form)
犠牲になる (Gisei ni naru) - To be sacrificed; to become a victim
犠牲にする (Gisei ni suru) - Make a sacrifice; to sacrifice
犠牲を払う (Gisei o harau) - Pay a sacrifice
犠牲を出す (Gisei o dasu) - Make a sacrifice
犠牲を強いる (Gisei o shiiru) - Import a sacrifice
犠牲を伴う (Gisei o tomonau) - It comes with a sacrifice.
犠牲を払わせる (Gisei o harawaseru) - Force to pay a sacrifice
犠牲をもたらす (Gisei o motarasu) - To cause a sacrifice
犠牲を負う (Gisei o ou) - Make a sacrifice
犠牲を与える (Gisei o ataeru) - Grant a sacrifice
犠牲を避ける (Gisei o sakeru) - Avoid a sacrifice
犠牲を求める (Gisei o motomeru) - Look for a sacrifice
犠牲を犠牲にする (Gisei o gisei ni suru) - Transforming sacrifice into sacrifice (ironically)