Self-harm vs Suicides
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Self-harm | Suicides | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | When someone hurts themselves on purpose. | When someone intentionally ends their own life. |
| Register | - | formal |
| Usage notes | Use 'self-harm' in contexts discussing mental health. It's sensitive; avoid casual conversation. Appropriate in clinical or support scenarios. | Generally used in serious contexts discussing mental health, tragedy, or statistics. Avoid in casual conversations. |
Frequently asked questions: Self-harm vs Suicides
What's the difference between "Self-harm" and "Suicides"?
"Self-harm" means: When someone hurts themselves on purpose. "Suicides" means: When someone intentionally ends their own life.
When should I use "Self-harm" and "Suicides"?
"Suicides" is formal.