Meaning and Usage
The word 自首 (じしゅ) specifically means to surrender oneself to the police or authorities, usually after committing a crime. It implies a voluntary act of turning oneself in rather than being caught.
Context and Register
This term is formal and often used in legal or police contexts. It is not used casually in everyday conversation unless discussing crime or legal matters.
Common Collocations
- 自首する: to surrender oneself
- 自首を決意する: to decide to surrender
- 警察に自首する: to turn oneself in to the police
Usage Notes
When using 自首, the speaker implies responsibility and acknowledgment of wrongdoing. It often carries a nuance of remorse or acceptance of consequences. Avoid confusing 自首 with 捕まる (つかまる), which means to be caught or arrested by others rather than surrendering voluntarily.