Translation guide
The English word 'corpse' refers to a dead body, usually human. In Japanese, the most common and neutral word is 死体 (したい). However, there are several other words that differ in formality, context, and nuance. This guide helps you choose the right one.
To refer to a dead body in a neutral, factual way, such as in news reports, everyday conversation, or general descriptions.
The most common and neutral word for a dead body, human or animal. Used in crime reports, everyday speech, and general contexts.
公園で死体が見つかった。
A corpse was found in the park.
死体を解剖する。
To dissect a corpse.
A more respectful term for a dead body, often used for the deceased in formal contexts like funerals, news about victims, or when showing respect. Implies the body of a person who has passed away.
遺体は家族に引き渡された。
The remains were handed over to the family.
事故現場から遺体が収容された。
The body was recovered from the accident site.
Often used for animal carcasses, but can refer to human corpses in a more blunt or impersonal way. It can sound somewhat cold or detached when used for humans.
道に猫の死骸があった。
There was a dead cat on the road.
戦場には多くの死骸が転がっていた。
Many corpses lay scattered on the battlefield.
To refer to a corpse in a more poetic, literary, or indirect way.
A poetic and somewhat archaic term for a dead body, often used in literature or emotional contexts. It carries a sense of sorrow and respect.
彼は妻の亡骸を抱きしめて泣いた。
He wept, holding his wife's lifeless body.
An archaic or literary word for a corpse, often implying a lifeless shell. Rare in modern conversation.
To refer to a dead body in a clinical, forensic, or legal setting.
Also used in medical and legal contexts as the standard term. For example, in autopsies or crime investigations.
死体検案書
Corpse examination report
An older or more formal variant of 死体, sometimes used in legal or medical documents. The kanji 屍 specifically means corpse. Rare in modern usage.
死体 is the general, neutral term. 遺体 is respectful and used for human remains, especially in formal or emotional contexts. 死骸 is often for animals or impersonal descriptions; using it for a person can sound cold or disrespectful.
When speaking about a deceased person in front of their family or in formal settings, avoid 死体 or 死骸. Use 遺体 or even more euphemistic phrases like お亡くなりになった方 (the person who passed away).
To abandon a corpse in the field.
Autopsy of a corpse