suicide
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suicide
The intentional and self-determined ending of one's own life. The term is often used as a value-neutral or euphemistic alternative to 'Selbstmord' (suicide) and emphasizes the voluntary nature of the decision.
In seinem Abschiedsbrief erklärte er die Gründe für seinen Freitod.
In his farewell letter, he explained the reasons for his suicide.
The word is made up of 'frei' (free) and 'der Tod' (death). This structure emphasizes the idea of a death based on a free, self-determined decision by the person.
Die Diskussion um den assistierten Freitod ist gesellschaftlich sehr komplex.
The discussion about assisted suicide is socially very complex.
'Freitod' (suicide, literally 'free death') is often used to avoid the negative association of 'Mord' (murder) in the word 'Selbstmord' (suicide, literally 'self-murder'). It is considered a more neutral or respectful term that foregrounds the conscious decision.
Manche Menschen bevorzugen den Begriff Freitod, da er die Freiwilligkeit betont.
Some people prefer the term Freitod, as it emphasizes voluntariness.
This noun is often used in fixed expressions. Typical verbs are 'den Freitod wählen' (to choose suicide) or 'in den Freitod gehen' (to die by suicide).
Nach dem Tod seiner Frau wählte der alte Mann den Freitod.
After the death of his wife, the old man chose suicide.
suicide
'der Selbstmord' and 'der Freitod' both refer to the intentional ending of one's own life. 'Selbstmord' is the better-known everyday term, but it can sound harsh or judgmental. 'Freitod' often sounds more cautious or euphemistic and places more emphasis on the fact that the person made the decision themselves. That is why 'Freitod' is sometimes used in sensitive texts or in discussions about self-determination. Learners may confuse the words because they refer to the same act. The tone is different, though: 'Freitod' sounds less harsh than 'Selbstmord'.
In dem Buch spricht die Familie ruhig über den Freitod des alten Mannes.
In the book, the family speaks calmly about the old man's suicide.
Die Zeitung berichtet nicht ausführlich über den Selbstmord, um Angehörige zu schützen.
The newspaper does not report in detail on the suicide in order to protect the relatives.