commit suicide

USAGE SUMMARY

"commit suicide" is correct and usable in written English.
However, it is a sensitive and delicate subject, so you should use it very carefully in formal writing. For example, "Her friends were worried when they heard that she had committed suicide due to depression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some commit suicide.

Independent

"All Empires commit suicide".

The New Yorker

"People might commit suicide.

The New York Times

Why not commit suicide?

The New Yorker

Or you could commit suicide.

The New Yorker

People attempt to commit suicide.

The Guardian - Opinion

Why shouldn't I commit suicide?

The New York Times - Books

I tried to commit suicide".

The New York Times

Children attempt to commit suicide.

The Guardian - Opinion

How did he commit suicide?

The New York Times

"She wants to commit suicide".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using alternative phrases like "died by suicide" or "took their own life" to reduce potential stigma.

Common error

Avoid using judgmental or accusatory language when discussing suicide. Instead of saying someone "committed suicide" as a crime, focus on the mental health aspects and the individual's struggles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commit suicide" functions as a verb phrase where "commit" acts as a transitive verb taking "suicide" as its direct object. Ludwig examples showcase its use in various narrative and analytical contexts. The Ludwig AI indicates it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "commit suicide" is a verb phrase used to describe the act of intentionally ending one's life. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct, but sensitivity is paramount when using it. While very common across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki, alternative phrases like "died by suicide" or "ended their life" are often preferred due to their reduced stigma. When writing about suicide, prioritize accuracy, sensitivity, and the inclusion of resources for suicide prevention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take one's own life

Replaces "commit suicide" with a more general phrase referring to ending one's life.

end one's life

Uses a more direct and less formal verb to describe the act of suicide.

take their life

Emphasizes the person's action in ending their own life.

die by suicide

Shifts focus to the cause of death being suicide.

kill oneself

A more straightforward way of expressing the act of suicide.

intentionally end their life

Highlights the deliberate nature of the act.

choose to die

Focuses on the choice involved in ending one's life.

succumb to suicide

Presents suicide as an overpowering force.

demise by self-harm

A more clinical description emphasizing self-inflicted harm.

self-inflicted death

Highlights the self-directed nature of the death.

FAQs

What is a more sensitive way to say "commit suicide"?

Alternatives include "died by suicide", "ended their life", or "took their own life". These phrases can reduce stigma and are often preferred in journalistic and clinical contexts.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "commit suicide" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, using alternatives like "died by suicide" or "ended their life" can be more appropriate in formal or sensitive contexts.

How should I approach writing about suicide in news articles?

Focus on providing accurate information, avoiding sensationalism, and including resources for suicide prevention. Consider using phrases like "died by suicide" to minimize stigma.

What are some resources to include when writing about suicide?

Include links to suicide prevention hotlines, mental health organizations, and support groups. Providing these resources can offer help to readers who may be struggling.