Meaning and Usage
"遗体" (yítǐ) specifically refers to the physical remains of a deceased person, i.e., the corpse or body after death. It is a formal term often used in legal, medical, and funeral contexts.
Common Contexts
You will encounter "遗体" in news reports about accidents or crimes, in hospital or forensic settings, and during funeral arrangements. It is not used for living bodies or metaphorical uses.
Collocations and Patterns
- 遗体保护 (yítǐ bǎohù): protecting the body, often at a crime or accident scene.
- 遗体告别 (yítǐ gàobié): farewell ceremony for the deceased.
- 遗体火化 (yítǐ huǒhuà): cremation of the body.
Usage Notes
"遗体" is a respectful and neutral term focusing on the physical remains. Avoid confusing it with "尸体" (shītǐ), which can sound more clinical or blunt. "遗体" is preferred in formal or sensitive contexts.
Summary
Use "遗体" when referring to the deceased person's body in official, medical, or funeral contexts. It conveys respect and formality appropriate for discussing death and post-mortem procedures.