首級・首|しゅきゅうshukyuu[0]heiban (flat)
しるしshirushi
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Which spelling to use
首級首級 is the more common written form and the one beginners should normally choose when writing this word.
首首 is an alternative written form, but it is less common than 首級; beginners should use 首級 instead.
Definitions
- noundecapitated head of an enemy
Synonyms & antonyms
- Related首切りくびきりNeutralRefers to beheading or to dismissing employees — in modern usage mostly layoffs. 「首級」 is the severed head of an enemy, also figurative in 「首級を挙げる」.
- Related馘首かくしゅWrittenWritten/formal prose for dismissal or beheading; rare in modern usage, appearing mainly in news reports.
For a severed enemy head use 「首級」 — historical in flavor; 「首級を挙げる」 can also figuratively mean a great achievement. Beheading or layoffs take 「首切り」; 「馘首」 is written prose, rare today, mostly in reports.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
- 討ち取った敵の首。
Kanji in this word
See also
