"killed himself" vs "committed suicide"

Question

"killed himself" vs "committed suicide"

Both "committed suicide" and "killed himself" are correct phrases, but they have different connotations. "Committed suicide" is a more formal and neutral term, while "killed himself" is more direct and may carry a negative or judgmental tone. The choice between the two depends on the context and the desired level of sensitivity.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

This phrase is more direct and may imply a negative or judgmental attitude towards the act of suicide. It is important to consider the sensitivity of the topic and the impact of the language used.

Examples:

He tragically killed himself last month.
The note he left behind revealed that he had killed himself.
The family was shocked to learn that he had killed himself.
She couldn't believe that her brother had killed himself.
The community was saddened by the news that he had killed himself.

Alternatives:

took his own life
ended his life
died by suicide
suicided
self-inflicted death

This phrase is a formal and neutral way to describe someone taking their own life. It is commonly used in news reports, official statements, and discussions about mental health.

Examples:

He committed suicide last year.
The police confirmed that the victim had committed suicide.
The documentary explores the reasons why people commit suicide.
The family was devastated by the news of his suicide.
The organization aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention.

Alternatives:

took his own life
ended his life
died by suicide
suicided
self-inflicted death

Answer 1

killed himself

This phrase is correct but may carry a more direct or judgmental tone.

Answer 2

committed suicide

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"killed himself" vs "committed suicide"

killed himself

committed suicide

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