窒息
chissoku
The English word asphyxia is translated into Japanese as 窒息 (chissoku).
窒息 refers to a condition characterized by an extreme decrease of oxygen and an increase of carbon dioxide. It is used in both medical contexts to describe asphyxia and in general contexts to describe suffocation or choking.
Meaning: condition with extreme decrease of oxygen and increase of carbon dioxide (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
chissoku
Did you know?
- The character 窒 in 窒息 is also used in the word 窒素, meaning 'nitrogen'. This is because nitrogen is a gas that does not support life, mirroring the 'stifling' nature of the word 'asphyxia'.
- In Japanese, 窒息 can be used metaphorically to describe a feeling of extreme social pressure or a suffocating atmosphere in a relationship, rather than just a physical lack of air.
- The character 窒 (chi) is often used in Japanese to describe things that are cramped or stagnant, such as a stuffy room or a lack of circulation.
Examples in context
- 窒息の危険があります。Chissoku no kiken ga arimasu.There is a danger of asphyxia.
- 窒息を防ぐための対策が必要です。Chissoku o fusegu tame no taisaku ga hitsuyou desu.Measures to prevent asphyxia are necessary.
Example conversation
Yota and Yui are discussing safety precautions for a child.
- 陽太 Yotaこのおもちゃは窒息の危険があるよ。kono omocha wa chissoku no kiken ga aru yo.This toy carries a risk of asphyxia.
- 結衣 Yui本当だね。すぐに捨てよう。hontou da ne. sugu ni suteyou.You're right. Let's throw it away immediately.
- 陽太 Yota小さな部品が多いから危ないね。chiisana buhin ga ooi kara abunai ne.It's dangerous because there are many small parts.
- 結衣 Yui気をつけてくれてありがとう、陽太。ki o tsukete kurete arigatou, Youta.Thank you for being careful, Yota.
