Meaning and Usage
The verb '杀害' (shāhài) specifically means to kill or murder someone or an animal, often implying an unlawful or violent act. It is a formal term frequently used in news reports, legal contexts, and serious discussions about crime or war.
Common Contexts
'杀害' is commonly found in contexts involving crime, legal judgments, or descriptions of violent acts, especially when emphasizing the severity or illegality of the killing.
Collocations and Patterns
- 杀害罪 (shāhài zuì): crime of killing/murder
- 被杀害 (bèi shāhài): to be killed (passive)
- 残忍地杀害 (cánrěn de shāhài): cruelly kill
These collocations highlight the formal and serious tone of the word.
Usage Notes
'杀害' is more formal and serious than simply '杀' (to kill). It often appears in written language, especially in legal or official documents. Avoid using it in casual conversation where '杀' or other verbs might be more natural.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse '杀害' with '伤害' (to injure/harm), which implies causing harm but not necessarily death. '杀害' always involves killing.