終末期

• Reading: しゅうまつき
• Romaji: shuumatsu ki
• Kanji breakdown: 終 (shū) — end, finish, conclude; 末 (matsu/sue) — end, tip, last; 期 (ki) — period, phase, stage
• Pronunciation: /ɕɯː.ma.tsɯ.ki/

Meaning

Terminal phase; end-of-life period; the final stage of a life-limiting illness when recovery is no longer expected.

A clinical and ethical term referring to the stage of illness when curative treatment is no longer feasible and the focus shifts to comfort and quality of life. Central to discussions of 終末期医療 (end-of-life care), 緩和ケア, and 尊厳死 (death with dignity). Used with sensitivity in medical, hospice, and family contexts to acknowledge approaching death without euphemism.

Examples

1. 終末期の患者が穏やかに最期を過ごせるよう、緩和ケアチームが支援した。 The palliative care team provided support so that the terminal patient could spend their final days peacefully.
2. 家族は終末期医療について医師と十分に話し合い、方針を決めた。 The family thoroughly discussed end-of-life care options with the doctor and decided on a course of action.
3. 彼女は終末期にも前向きで、周囲の人々を励まし続けた。 Even in her terminal phase, she remained positive and continued to encourage those around her.

Usage Guide

Context: medicine, palliative care, ethics, end-of-life, hospice

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 終末 (shūmatsu, end/conclusion/terminal) and 期 (ki, period/phase/stage). Together they designate the final period of life, specifically in the context of progressive or fatal illness.

Cultural Context

Era: Contemporary

Generation: Adults

Social background: General