相続する

• Reading: そうぞくする
• Romaji: souzoku suru
• Kanji breakdown: 相 (sou/ai) — mutual, each other; 続 (zoku) — to continue, follow
• Pronunciation: /soː.zo.kɯ.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To inherit; to succeed to property, rights, or obligations from a predecessor.

A legal and formal term primarily used for inheriting assets, property, or legal rights after someone passes away. The noun form 相続 appears in important compounds like 相続税 (inheritance tax), 相続人 (heir), and 相続放棄 (renouncement of inheritance). Essential vocabulary for legal and financial discussions.

Examples

1. 父の遺産を兄弟三人で相続した。 The three of us siblings inherited our father's estate.
2. 相続税の申告期限は十か月以内だ。 The deadline for filing inheritance tax is within ten months.
3. 借金も財産と一緒に相続されることがある。 Debts can sometimes be inherited along with assets.

Usage Guide

Context: legal, financial, family matters

Tone: formal

Origin & History

Compound of 相 (sou, mutual/each other) + 続 (zoku, to continue). Literally 'mutually continuing,' reflecting the passing of property or status from one generation to the next.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal