Meaning and Usage
The verb 亡くす (なくす) is used primarily to express the loss of a person, especially through death. It is often used in sensitive contexts such as talking about family members or close friends who have passed away. Unlike the verb 失う (うしなう), which can mean to lose anything (like an object or opportunity), 亡くす specifically refers to losing someone important, usually by death.
Common Collocations
- 〜を亡くす: to lose someone (e.g., 家族を亡くす - to lose a family member)
- 大切な人を亡くす: to lose an important person
- 〜を亡くして: after losing someone
These phrases are often used in formal or respectful speech when discussing bereavement.
Register and Nuance
亡くす is polite and somewhat formal, suitable for conversations about sensitive topics. It conveys respect and empathy toward the person who experienced the loss. It is less direct and softer than simply saying 死ぬ (to die).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 亡くす with 亡くなる, which means "to pass away" (used for the person who died). Remember, 亡くす is from the perspective of the survivor who lost someone, while 亡くなる is from the perspective of the person who died or the fact of death itself.
Summary
Use 亡くす when you want to express that someone has lost a loved one, especially in respectful or formal contexts. It is a key verb for discussing bereavement and loss in Japanese conversation.