生命

• Reading: せいめい
• Romaji: seimei
• Kanji breakdown: 生 (sei) — life, birth; 命 (mei) — life, fate
• Pronunciation: /se.i.me.i/

Meaning

Life; living existence. The vital force that animates living beings.

A noun with a more formal and philosophical tone than 命 (いのち). Used in scientific, medical, and philosophical contexts. Common compounds include 生命保険 (life insurance), 生命力 (vitality), and 生命科学 (life science). Carries weight and gravity when used.

Examples

1. 地球上にはたくさんの生命が存在する。 The prime minister issued a statement at the press conference.
2. 生命保険に入っておいたほうがいい。 Both countries issued a joint statement and pledged cooperation.
3. 科学者たちは火星の生命を探している。 The company issued an official statement about the accident.

Usage Guide

Context: science, philosophy, insurance

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 生 (life, birth, to live) and 命 (life, fate, command). Both kanji relate to living, but together they emphasise the broader concept of life as a phenomenon rather than an individual existence.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal