廃止

はいし

abolition, repeal

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"廃止" (はいし) means "abolition" or "repeal" and is used to describe the act of officially ending or canceling laws, systems, services, or rules. It is a formal noun often seen in government, legal, or organizational contexts.

Common Collocations

  • 廃止する: to abolish or repeal something.
  • 法律の廃止: abolition of a law.
  • 制度の廃止: abolition of a system.
  • サービスの廃止: discontinuation of a service.

Usage Notes

When using "廃止," the focus is on the official or formal cancellation of something that previously existed. It is often used in written or formal spoken Japanese rather than casual conversation. Learners should not confuse "廃止" with "中止" (ちゅうし), which means "suspension" or "cancellation" but usually temporary or event-related.

Register and Politeness

"廃止" is neutral to formal and appropriate in news reports, official announcements, and formal discussions. It is not casual.

Common Mistake

Avoid using "廃止" for temporary cancellations or pauses. For example, a canceled meeting would use "中止," not "廃止."

Example Sentences

せいふはふるいほうりつのはいしをけっていした。

The government decided to abolish the old law.

このせいどはらいねんからはいしされるよていです。

This system is scheduled to be abolished starting next year.

はいしされたサービスのかわりにあたらしいサービスがはじまった。

A new service started in place of the abolished service.