C1nounformal10K+

Suicide

UK /["/ˈsuːɪsaɪd/"]/US /["/ˈsuːɪsaɪd/"]/

Definition

the act of killing yourself deliberately

In simple words: When someone intentionally ends their own life.

Examples

  • The government launched a campaign to raise awareness about suicide prevention.
  • After losing his job and facing financial troubles, he contemplated suicide.
  • Many support groups help individuals recover after surviving a suicide attempt.
  • Suicide rates have increased in the last decade, inspiring research into causes and solutions.
  • The novel's plot includes a character's suicide as a turning point in the story.
  • The term 'suicide' can also refer to a self-destructive act, not necessarily death.

Usage notes

This word is serious and should be used with care. It's appropriate in discussions about mental health, but not in casual conversations. Avoid using it lightly to show respect for those affected by it.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'sue' trying to end something painful, but remember it's about a life.

Collocations

  • attempted
  • collective
  • double
  • commit
  • attempt
  • consider
  • risk
  • threat
  • attempt

Synonyms

  • self-harm
  • self-inflicted death
  • taking one's life

Antonyms

  • survival
  • rescue
  • salvation

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'suicide' with 'homicide' which refers to killing someone else.
  • Using the term lightly in jokes or casual conversations.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'sue-icide' instead of 'sigh-icide'.