Meaning and Usage
The verb '자살하다' means 'to commit suicide.' It is a formal and serious term used in both spoken and written Korean, often in news reports, medical contexts, or discussions about mental health.
Common Contexts
You will often see '자살하다' used when talking about causes or prevention of suicide, such as in sentences discussing depression or counseling. It is important to use this word with sensitivity due to the gravity of the subject.
Collocations and Patterns
- 자살하다 (commit suicide): the basic verb form.
- 자살을 시도하다 (attempt suicide): used when someone tries but may not succeed.
- 자살 예방 (suicide prevention): common phrase in mental health contexts.
- 자살 충동 (suicidal impulse): describing feelings leading to suicide.
Register and Politeness
'자살하다' is neutral in formality but the topic is sensitive. When speaking politely, you might use '자살하셨다' or more indirect expressions.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '자살하다' with '죽다' (to die). '자살하다' specifically means to die by one's own intentional act, so it should not be used for natural or accidental death.