Meaning and Usage
"故人" (こじん) is a respectful term used to refer to someone who has passed away, often translated as "the deceased." It is commonly used in formal or literary contexts, such as in obituaries, memorial speeches, or respectful conversations about someone who has died.
Common Contexts
You will often see "故人" used when talking about remembering or honoring someone who has died, such as visiting graves, carrying on their will, or recalling memories. It carries a tone of respect and solemnity.
Collocations and Patterns
- 故人を偲ぶ (こじんをしのぶ): to remember or mourn the deceased
- 故人の遺志 (こじんのいし): the will or wishes of the deceased
- 故人の写真 (こじんのしゃしん): photo of the deceased
Usage Notes
"故人" is more formal and respectful than simply saying "亡くなった人" (the person who died). It is not used for casual conversation about death but rather in respectful or ceremonial contexts. Avoid confusing it with "古人" (こじん), which means "ancient person" or "old person."