犠牲

• Reading: ぎせい
• Romaji: gisei
• Kanji breakdown: 犠 (gi) — sacrifice, victim; 牲 (sei) — animal sacrifice
• Pronunciation: /ɡi.seː/

Meaning

Sacrifice; something given up or lost for a greater cause or purpose.

A noun describing something valuable that is surrendered for a higher purpose, or a person who suffers as a result of circumstances. Used in expressions like 犠牲になる (to become a sacrifice/victim) and 犠牲を払う (to make a sacrifice). Carries both literal and figurative meanings.

Examples

1. 多くの犠牲のおかげで今の平和がある。 The peace we have today is thanks to the sacrifice of many.
2. 仕事のために家族との時間を犠牲にしてきた。 I've sacrificed time with my family for work.
3. 事故の犠牲者の家族に哀悼の意を表した。 I expressed my condolences to the families of the accident victims.

Usage Guide

Context: history, news, personal reflection

Tone: solemn

Origin & History

Compound of 犠 (sacrifice, victim) + 牲 (animal sacrifice). Both kanji contain the ox radical 牛, reflecting ancient practices of animal sacrifice in religious rituals.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal