絶滅
絶滅 en 30 secondes
- Zetsumetsu means biological extinction, where a species or group disappears permanently from Earth.
- It functions as a noun and a suru-verb (絶滅する), typically used for animals, plants, or cultures.
- Commonly seen in news and science contexts, especially regarding the 'Red List' of endangered species.
- Must be distinguished from 'zenmetsu' (annihilation in battle) and 'metsubō' (fall of a civilization).
The Japanese word 絶滅 (zetsumetsu) is a powerful and somber term primarily used in biological, environmental, and historical contexts to describe the total disappearance of a species or a group of organisms. Composed of two kanji—絶 (zetsu), meaning 'to cut off,' 'discontinue,' or 'beyond,' and 滅 (metsu), meaning 'destroy,' 'perish,' or 'extinguish'—the word literally translates to the permanent cutting off and perishing of a lineage. In an English-speaking context, it is the direct equivalent of 'extinction.' While it is a scientific term at its core, its usage extends into discussions about culture, languages, and traditions that are fading away forever.
- Biological Context
- In biology, 絶滅 refers to the death of the last individual of a species, meaning the genetic line has ceased to exist. It is often paired with 'species' (種 - shu) as in 種の絶滅 (extinction of a species).
- Environmental Crisis
- In modern discourse, particularly regarding climate change and habitat loss, you will frequently encounter the term 絶滅危惧種 (zetsumetsu kigushu), which means 'endangered species.' This is a critical term for anyone studying environmental science or reading Japanese news reports on biodiversity.
恐竜は約六千五百万年前に絶滅しました。
(Dinosaurs became extinct approximately 65 million years ago.)
Beyond the physical death of animals, 絶滅 is used metaphorically to describe the end of something that cannot be recovered. For instance, if a traditional craft (伝統工芸 - dentō kōgei) no longer has any practitioners, one might say that craft is facing 絶滅. It carries a sense of finality and irreversible loss. In academic settings, particularly for those preparing for the JLPT N2/N1 or IELTS-style Japanese proficiency tests, understanding the nuance of 絶滅 versus similar words like 滅亡 (metsubō - the fall of a civilization) or 全滅 (zenmetsu - total annihilation in a specific battle) is crucial for precision in writing and speaking.
多くの言語が今、絶滅の危機にあります。
(Many languages are now in danger of extinction.)
- Historical Usage
- Historically, the term was used to describe the wiping out of a clan or a family line (家系の絶滅). In the feudal era, if a samurai family had no heir, their lineage was considered 'zetsumetsu,' which often meant the loss of their lands and status.
In summary, 絶滅 is not just a word for 'dying out'; it is a word that encompasses the scientific reality of ecological loss and the cultural anxiety of losing heritage. It is frequently seen in the 'Red Data Book' (レッドデータブック) published by the Ministry of the Environment in Japan, which lists species at risk. For English speakers, think of it as the most formal and definitive way to say that a category of life or culture has ceased to be.
Grammatically, 絶滅 (zetsumetsu) functions as a suru-verb (a noun that becomes a verb by adding 'suru'). This makes it highly versatile. You can use it as a standalone noun, a subject, or an action. When used as a verb, 絶滅する means 'to go extinct' or 'to become extinct.' It is an intransitive verb, meaning the species itself is the subject doing the action (or rather, undergoing the process).
- The Intransitive Form
- [Species] + が + 絶滅する. This is the most common pattern. For example: ニホンオオカミが絶滅した (The Japanese wolf went extinct).
- The Causative Form
- [Agent] + が + [Species] + を + 絶滅させる. This means 'to drive [a species] to extinction.' For example: 人間が多くの動物を絶滅させた (Humans have driven many animals to extinction).
環境破壊は、動植物を絶滅に追い込む。
(Environmental destruction drives animals and plants to extinction.)
Another common construction is using the particle の (no) to link 絶滅 to other nouns. This creates phrases like 絶滅の危機 (zetsumetsu no kiki) meaning 'crisis of extinction' or 'danger of extinction.' This is often followed by verbs like 瀕する (hin-suru), which means 'to be on the verge of.' Together, 絶滅の危機に瀕している is a set phrase you will see in almost every article about endangered pandas, tigers, or whales.
その鳥は、すでに野生では絶滅しています。
(That bird is already extinct in the wild.)
In academic writing, you might see the passive form 絶滅させられる, though it is less common than the causative-active. More frequently, authors use the noun form as a compound, such as 大量絶滅 (tairyō zetsumetsu), which means 'mass extinction.' This refers to events like the Permian-Triassic extinction where the vast majority of life on Earth perished. When writing about biology in Japanese, ensure you use the correct particles: ~を絶滅から救う (to save ~ from extinction) is a standard way to express conservation efforts.
- Formal vs. Informal
- While 'zetsumetsu' is a formal word, it is the standard word. There isn't really a 'slang' version of extinction, though in very casual speech, someone might jokingly say 絶滅しそう (I'm about to go extinct) to mean they are extremely tired or that their 'type' of person is disappearing, though this is rare.
You will encounter 絶滅 (zetsumetsu) in a variety of high-level Japanese media and educational settings. It is a staple of NHK news broadcasts, especially during segments on the environment or 'Nature' documentaries (自然ドキュメンタリー). If you visit a Japanese museum of natural history, such as the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno, Tokyo, the word 絶滅 will be on nearly every plaque in the paleontology section.
「トキは日本で一度絶滅しましたが、人工繁殖に成功しました。」
("The Japanese crested ibis once went extinct in Japan, but artificial breeding was successful.")
In the classroom, Japanese students learn about the 'Five Great Mass Extinctions' (五大大量絶滅). Therefore, any scientific discussion or textbook will use this word. It's also very common in 'Red Data' reports. Beyond science, you'll hear it in social commentary. For example, a commentator might discuss the 絶滅の危機にある伝統文化 (traditional culture in danger of extinction), referring to the aging population in rural Japan (限界集落 - genkai shūraku) where local customs are dying out because there are no young people to inherit them.
In popular culture, particularly in anime and manga that deal with post-apocalyptic themes or environmentalism (like Princess Mononoke or Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind), 絶滅 is used to emphasize the stakes of the conflict. Characters might fight to prevent the 人類の絶滅 (extinction of humanity). In these contexts, the word carries a weight of existential dread that 'dying' simply doesn't convey. It's also found in the titles of books and movies, such as 'The Sixth Extinction' (第六の絶滅), which is a popular topic in Japanese translated literature.
- News Keywords
- Watch for these phrases on Japanese news: 絶滅の恐れ (fear of extinction), 絶滅収容所 (extermination camp - historically used in context of the Holocaust), 絶滅回避 (avoiding extinction).
地球温暖化が原因で、北極熊が絶滅するかもしれません。
(Polar bears might go extinct due to global warming.)
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 絶滅 (zetsumetsu) is confusing it with other words that mean 'to end' or 'to die out.' Because Japanese has many words for 'destruction' or 'ending,' choosing the wrong one can change your meaning significantly. The most common confusion is with 全滅 (zenmetsu).
- 絶滅 vs. 全滅
- While they look similar, 絶滅 is biological/permanent extinction of a species. 全滅 means the 'total destruction' or 'annihilation' of a specific group in a specific place. If a battalion of soldiers is wiped out in a battle, you use 全滅. If the entire human race is gone forever, you use 絶滅.
- 絶滅 vs. 滅亡
- 滅亡 (metsubō) is used for civilizations, countries, or dynasties. You would say the Roman Empire 滅亡した, but you would not say it 絶滅した unless you were implying the Roman people as a biological group ceased to exist.
❌ 昨日の試合で、我がチームは絶滅した。
✅ 昨日の試合で、我がチームは全滅した。
(Our team was annihilated in yesterday's match.)
Another mistake is using 絶滅 for single individuals. If your pet hamster dies, you cannot say it has 'zetsumetsu-ed.' It sounds like you are saying the entire hamster species is now gone. Similarly, avoid using it for objects like 'my phone's battery' or 'the milk in the fridge.' For these, use 切れる (kireru) or なくなる (nakunaru). Using 絶滅 in these cases would sound like a very dramatic, perhaps accidentally funny, overstatement.
Lastly, pay attention to the particle usage. Many learners forget to use the causative ~を絶滅させる when talking about an external force (like humans or a meteor) causing the extinction. Saying 人間が動物が絶滅した is grammatically incorrect; it must be 人間が動物を絶滅させた (Humans caused animals to go extinct).
To truly master 絶滅 (zetsumetsu), you should understand how it compares to its synonyms and related terms. While 絶滅 is the most common word for biological extinction, other words offer different shades of meaning depending on the register and the specific nature of the 'ending.'
- 死滅 (Shimetsu)
- This word also means 'to die out' or 'become extinct,' but it is often used for microorganisms, bacteria, or cells. If you use a disinfectant to kill all bacteria on a surface, you would say the bacteria 死滅した. Using 絶滅 here would be too grand; 死滅 is more clinical.
- 根絶 (Kon-zetsu)
- This means 'eradication' or 'rooting out.' It is used when the disappearance is intentional and desirable. For example, 貧困を根絶する (to eradicate poverty) or 病気を根絶する (to eradicate a disease). You wouldn't want to 'zetsumetsu' poverty; you want to 'konzetsu' it.
ポリオはほぼ根絶されました。
(Polio has been almost eradicated.)
滅びる (Horobiru) is a native Japanese (wago) verb that means 'to perish' or 'to go to ruin.' It is more poetic and literary than the scientific 絶滅. You might hear it in a fantasy movie: 世界が滅びる (The world will perish). While 絶滅 is a cold, scientific fact, 滅びる carries a sense of tragedy and drama. Another related term is 途絶える (Todaeru), which means 'to be cut off' or 'to cease.' This is used for communications, paths, or traditions (e.g., 連絡が途絶える - contact was cut off).
古い習慣が途絶えてしまった。
(Old customs have died out/ceased.)
In summary, choose 絶滅 for biological extinction and endangered species. Use 死滅 for microbes, 根絶 for social evils or diseases you want to get rid of, and 滅亡 for countries or civilizations. Understanding these distinctions will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise in academic and professional settings.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The word 'zetsumetsu' became widely used in its modern biological sense during the Meiji period (1868-1912) as Japanese scholars translated Western scientific texts on evolution and natural history.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing 'tsu' like 'too'. It should be like the 'ts' in 'cats'.
- Stressing the wrong syllable. Japanese words generally have even stress compared to English.
- Confusing the 'ze' sound with 'je'.
- Making the 'e' in 'metsu' too long like 'may-tsu'.
- Dropping the final 'u' too much in formal speech.
Niveau de difficulté
The kanji are complex and require B1/B2 level knowledge.
Writing the kanji '滅' can be difficult for learners.
Pronunciation is straightforward, but usage requires care.
Common in news and documentaries; easy to pick out once known.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Suru-verbs (N+する)
絶滅する (to go extinct), 勉強する (to study).
Causative Form (~させる)
絶滅させる (to cause extinction), 食べさせる (to make someone eat).
Noun Modification (Noun + の + Noun)
絶滅の危機 (crisis of extinction), 私の本 (my book).
Potential Form (~できる/~うる)
絶滅しうる (possible to go extinct), 食べられる (can eat).
Passive Voice (~される)
絶滅させられる (to be made to go extinct), 褒められる (to be praised).
Exemples par niveau
きょうりゅうは ぜつめつ しました。
Dinosaurs went extinct.
Simple past tense of the verb form.
この どうぶつは ぜつめつ しそうです。
This animal looks like it will go extinct.
Using ~sō desu to show appearance or likelihood.
ぜつめつ は 「もう いない」 という いみ です。
Zetsumetsu means 'no longer here.'
Explaining a word using the 'to iu imi desu' pattern.
ぜつめつ した どうぶつ の ほん です。
This is a book about extinct animals.
Using the past tense verb as an adjective to modify a noun.
だれも いなくなると ぜつめつ です。
If everyone is gone, it's extinction.
Using the conditional 'to' for a general consequence.
ぜつめつ は かなしい です。
Extinction is sad.
Basic noun + adjective sentence.
マンモス は ぜつめつ しました。
Mammoths went extinct.
Identifying a specific extinct animal.
ぜつめつ しないで ください。
Please don't go extinct.
Using 'naide kudasai' for a request/plea.
多くの動物が絶滅の危機にあります。
Many animals are in danger of extinction.
Using 'no kiki ni aru' to show a state of crisis.
環境が変わると、生き物は絶滅します。
When the environment changes, living things go extinct.
The conditional 'to' indicating a natural result.
絶滅した鳥の名前を知っていますか?
Do you know the names of extinct birds?
Relative clause: 'extinct birds'.
私たちは絶滅を防がなければなりません。
We must prevent extinction.
Using 'nakereba narimasen' for obligation.
この花は絶滅しそうです。
This flower is likely to go extinct.
Verb stem + sō (probability).
昔、たくさんの生き物が絶滅しました。
A long time ago, many living things went extinct.
Adverb 'mukashi' (long ago) with past tense.
絶滅危惧種を守りましょう。
Let's protect endangered species.
Using the 'mashō' (let's) form.
絶滅は自然に起こることもあります。
Extinction can also happen naturally.
Using 'koto mo aru' to mean 'sometimes happens'.
ニホンカモシカは絶滅の危機から救われました。
The Japanese serow was saved from the brink of extinction.
Passive voice 'sukuwaremashita' (was saved).
人間活動が原因で絶滅する種が増えています。
The number of species going extinct due to human activity is increasing.
Compound sentence with 'ga gen-in de' (due to).
一度絶滅した種を復活させるのは難しい。
It is difficult to bring back a species once it has gone extinct.
Using the nominalizer 'no wa' to make the verb a subject.
この地域では、その蝶はすでに絶滅しています。
In this region, that butterfly is already extinct.
Using 'te iru' to show a continuing state.
絶滅を防ぐために、新しい法律が作られました。
New laws were created in order to prevent extinction.
Using 'tame ni' to express purpose.
その島では、外来種のせいで在来種が絶滅した。
On that island, native species went extinct because of invasive species.
Using 'no sei de' to indicate a negative cause.
絶滅の恐れがある動物のリストを確認する。
Check the list of animals that are in fear of extinction.
Noun phrase 'osore ga aru' (there is a fear/risk).
温暖化がこのまま進めば、多くの種が絶滅するだろう。
If global warming continues like this, many species will likely go extinct.
Conditional 'ba' with the presumptive 'darō'.
乱獲によって、多くの海洋生物が絶滅の危機に瀕している。
Due to overfishing, many marine creatures are on the brink of extinction.
Using 'ni yotte' (due to) and 'ni hin-shite iru' (on the brink of).
恐竜の絶滅については、巨大隕石の衝突説が有力だ。
Regarding the extinction of dinosaurs, the giant meteorite impact theory is prominent.
Using 'nitsuite wa' (regarding) and 'setsu' (theory).
生態系のバランスが崩れると、連鎖的な絶滅が起こりかねない。
If the balance of the ecosystem is disrupted, a chain reaction of extinctions could occur.
Using 'kanenai' to show a negative possibility.
その植物は、開発によって自生地が失われ、絶滅してしまった。
That plant went extinct because its natural habitat was lost due to development.
Compound sentence with the 'te-form' for cause and effect.
絶滅危惧種の保護は、国際的な協力が必要な課題である。
The protection of endangered species is an issue that requires international cooperation.
Formal noun-heavy sentence structure.
科学者たちは、絶滅したマンモスのDNAを解析している。
Scientists are analyzing the DNA of the extinct mammoth.
Using 'te-iru' for an ongoing action.
かつて日本には、ニホンオオカミという絶滅した動物がいた。
Once, there was an extinct animal in Japan called the Japanese wolf.
Using 'to iu' to name or define something.
絶滅のスピードは、過去のどの時代よりも速くなっている。
The speed of extinction is becoming faster than in any past era.
Comparative structure 'yori mo' (than).
人類の活動が引き起こした「第六の絶滅」が進行中であると言われている。
It is said that the 'Sixth Extinction' caused by human activity is currently underway.
Passive 'iwarete iru' and the relative clause 'jinrui no katsudō ga hikio-koshita'.
特定の種が絶滅することで、食物連鎖全体に深刻な影響が及ぶ。
The extinction of a specific species has a serious impact on the entire food chain.
Using 'koto de' to show the means or cause of an impact.
絶滅した言語を復興させる試みが、各地で行われている。
Attempts to revive extinct languages are being carried out in various places.
Metaphorical use of 'zetsumetsu' for languages.
生物多様性の喪失は、種の絶滅という形で如実に現れている。
The loss of biodiversity is clearly manifesting in the form of species extinction.
Using 'to iu katachi de' (in the form of).
絶滅危惧種の取引を規制するワシントン条約の役割は大きい。
The role of CITES (Washington Convention) in regulating the trade of endangered species is significant.
Specific legal/academic terminology (CITES).
遺伝子工学の進歩により、絶滅種の復活が倫理的な議論を呼んでいる。
With the progress of genetic engineering, the revival of extinct species is sparking ethical debates.
Using 'ni yori' (due to) and 'giron o yonde iru' (sparking debate).
その鳥は、生息環境の悪化により絶滅を余儀なくされた。
That bird was forced into extinction by the deterioration of its habitat.
Using 'o yoginaku sareta' (was forced to...).
近親交配が繰り返されると、遺伝的多様性が失われ、絶滅のリスクが高まる。
Repeated inbreeding leads to a loss of genetic diversity and increases the risk of extinction.
Technical scientific explanation using 'to' (if/when).
絶滅という不可逆的なプロセスは、地球の歴史における重大な転換点である。
The irreversible process known as extinction is a significant turning point in Earth's history.
Using 'fukagyakuteki' (irreversible) and 'tenkanten' (turning point).
大量絶滅の後に、新たな生物の多様化が起こるというのが進化の定説である。
It is an established theory of evolution that a new diversification of life occurs after a mass extinction.
Using 'to iu no ga' to nominalize a complex clause.
文化的絶滅は、単なる知識の喪失ではなく、アイデンティティの崩壊を意味する。
Cultural extinction means not just the loss of knowledge, but the collapse of identity.
Contrastive structure 'tan naru ... de wa naku ...'.
背景絶滅率を大幅に上回る現在の絶滅速度は、人類の責任に帰すべきものである。
The current extinction rate, which significantly exceeds the background extinction rate, is something that should be attributed to human responsibility.
Using 'ni kisubeki mono' (something that should be attributed to).
絶滅の危機を回避するためには、グローバルなガバナンスの再構築が不可欠だ。
In order to circumvent the crisis of extinction, a restructuring of global governance is indispensable.
High-level political/academic vocabulary.
種が絶滅するたびに、進化の何百万年もの歴史が永遠に失われるのである。
Every time a species goes extinct, millions of years of evolutionary history are lost forever.
Using 'tabi ni' (every time) and the emphatic 'no de aru'.
現代社会における伝統芸能の絶滅は、画一化されたグローバル文化の弊害とも言える。
The extinction of traditional performing arts in modern society can be called a negative effect of a standardized global culture.
Using 'tomo ieru' (can also be said to be).
保全生態学の究極の目的は、人為的な絶滅を未然に防ぐことにある。
The ultimate goal of conservation ecology lies in preventing anthropogenic extinction before it occurs.
Using 'ni aru' to indicate the essence or purpose.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— The state of being endangered. Used as a prefix for many ecological terms.
絶滅危惧植物の保護。
— On the very verge of extinction. Stronger than just 'kiki' (crisis).
その伝統は絶滅寸前だ。
— On the edge/brink of extinction. A common metaphorical expression.
絶滅の瀬戸際に立たされている。
— An official declaration of extinction by a scientific body.
環境省が絶滅宣言を出した。
— Extinct animals. General term for creatures that no longer exist.
絶滅動物の図鑑。
— To be on the verge of extinction. Very formal and common in writing.
トラは絶滅の危機に瀕している。
— Avoiding or preventing extinction. Used in conservation strategy.
絶滅回避のためのプロジェクト。
— The path to extinction. Often used in warnings about climate change.
このままでは絶滅への道を辿る。
— The rate/speed of extinction. Used in scientific data analysis.
絶滅スピードが加速している。
— An individual of an extinct species (often used in fossils).
絶滅個体の化石を発見する。
Souvent confondu avec
Used for a specific group (like a team or army) being wiped out in one event, not an entire species forever.
Used for the end of a country, empire, or civilization.
Used primarily for microorganisms, bacteria, or cells.
Expressions idiomatiques
— A girl with natural black hair (metaphorically 'extinct' in a world of dyed hair). Title of a famous idol song.
彼女は絶滅黒髪少女だね。
Slang/Pop Culture— A type of man who is considered rare or disappearing in modern society (e.g., old-fashioned gentlemen).
あんな優しい人は絶滅危惧種男子だ。
Slang/Casual— Referring to traditions that have no successors.
この祭りは絶滅の危機にある伝統だ。
Formal— To have no choice but to wait for extinction/end. Used when a situation is hopeless.
その産業は絶滅を待つのみだ。
Literary— The 'stigma' or 'mark' of extinction. Used when something is doomed.
その技術に絶滅の烙印が押された。
Literary— A 'relay' of extinction, where one extinction causes another. Ecological term.
絶滅のリレーを止めなければならない。
Academic— The abyss of extinction. Very dramatic.
絶滅の淵から這い上がる。
Literary— The wave of extinction. Used for mass events.
絶滅の波が押し寄せる。
Literary— The fate of extinction. Used in historical or tragic contexts.
彼らは絶滅の運命を辿った。
Formal— The 'footsteps' of extinction. Implying that extinction is approaching silently.
絶滅の足音が聞こえてくる。
LiteraryFacile à confondre
Both mean 'disappear' or 'cease to exist.'
Shōmetsu is broader and used for rights, cities, particles, or data. Zetsumetsu is specific to biological or cultural lineages.
データが消滅した (Data disappeared).
Both imply total removal.
Konzetsu is 'eradication' and is usually positive (removing something bad like a disease). Zetsumetsu is usually tragic (loss of a species).
犯罪を根絶する (Eradicate crime).
Both relate to things ending.
Suitai is 'decline.' Something can decline for a long time without reaching extinction.
産業が衰退する (The industry declines).
Both use the 'zetsu' kanji.
Danzetsu is 'severance' or 'interruption' of a relationship or communication.
国交が断絶した (Diplomatic relations were severed).
Both mean something is no longer there.
Haishi is 'abolition' of a law, system, or train line. It is an administrative decision.
その制度は廃止された (That system was abolished).
Structures de phrases
[Animal] は 絶滅 しました。
恐竜は絶滅しました。
[Animal] は 絶滅 の 危機 です。
パンダは絶滅の危機です。
[Cause] で [Animal] が 絶滅 した。
温暖化で多くの魚が絶滅した。
[Animal] は 絶滅 の 危機 に 瀕して いる。
その鳥は絶滅の危機に瀕している。
[Species] の 絶滅 は [Impact] を もたらす。
ハチの絶滅は食糧危機をもたらす。
[Action] は [Species] を 絶滅 に 追い込み かねない。
乱開発は希少種を絶滅に追い込みかねない。
[Species] の 絶滅速度 は [Comparison] を 上回る。
現在の絶滅速度は過去の平均を上回る。
絶滅 の 運命 を 辿る [Noun]。
絶滅の運命を辿る古き神々。
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
High in science, news, and environmental contexts. Low in everyday casual conversation unless used metaphorically.
-
Using 絶滅 for a cell phone dying.
→
電池が切れた (Denchi ga kireta).
Zetsumetsu is only for biological species or cultural lineages, not individual objects or batteries.
-
Using 絶滅 for a team losing a game.
→
チームが全滅した (Chīmu ga zenmetsu shita).
Zenmetsu refers to a specific group being wiped out in an event. Zetsumetsu is for a species being gone forever.
-
Saying 人間が動物が絶滅した。
→
人間が動物を絶滅させた (Ningen ga dōbutsu o zetsumetsu saseta).
You need the causative form 'saseta' when an agent (humans) causes the extinction.
-
Using 絶滅 for the Roman Empire.
→
ローマ帝国が滅亡した (Rōma teikoku ga metsubō shita).
Countries and civilizations 'metsubō' (fall/perish), they don't 'zetsumetsu' (go extinct biologically).
-
Using 絶滅 for one dead cat.
→
猫が死んだ (Neko ga shinda).
Zetsumetsu is for the whole species. Unless every cat on Earth died, don't use it.
Astuces
Causative Usage
Remember to use '絶滅させる' when talking about humans or other factors causing extinction. 'Humans made animals go extinct' is '人間が動物を絶滅させた'.
Writing 'Metsu'
The kanji 滅 has a water radical on the left. Think of water extinguishing a fire (the right side) to remember the meaning 'extinguish'.
The Red List
In Japan, the 'Red Data Book' is the primary source for 'zetsumetsu' statistics. Mentioning this in an essay will show high proficiency.
Environmentalism
This word is almost always found in environmental contexts. If you are discussing nature, this is your go-to word for permanent loss.
Pitch Accent
The pitch stays relatively flat (Heiban) after the first syllable. Avoid jumping up and down in pitch as it sounds unnatural.
The Scissors and the Flame
Visualize the first kanji as scissors cutting a thread and the second as a flame being put out. This represents the end of a life line.
NHK Keywords
When you hear 'kiki' (crisis) or 'osore' (fear) in a news report about animals, listen for 'zetsumetsu' right before it.
Academic Passages
In JLPT N2/N1, 'zetsumetsu' often appears in passages about biodiversity. Look for related words like 'seitai-kei' (ecosystem).
Metaphorical Use
Using 'zetsumetsu' for dying traditions makes you sound very eloquent. It shows you understand the cultural weight of the loss.
Avoid Zenmetsu
Never use 'zetsumetsu' for losing a game or a war. That is always 'zenmetsu' (annihilation). 'Zetsumetsu' is for biology/lineage.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Think of 'ZETSU' as 'STOP' (like 'zettai' - absolutely stop) and 'METSU' as 'MESS' (a total mess/destroyed). When a species is 'ZETSU-METSU,' it is 'Stopped and Destroyed' forever.
Association visuelle
Imagine a pair of scissors (絶 - severing) cutting a DNA strand, and then a fire (滅 - extinguishing) burning the pieces away.
Word Web
Défi
Write three sentences about an animal you like that is currently a 絶滅危惧種. Use the phrase 絶滅の危機に瀕している.
Origine du mot
The word '絶滅' comes from Middle Chinese roots. '絶' (zetsu) originally depicted a hand cutting silk threads, signifying 'to sever' or 'end.' '滅' (metsu) depicts water and fire, signifying 'to extinguish' or 'destroy.'
Sens originel : To sever a lineage and extinguish a life force.
Sino-Japanese (Kango).Contexte culturel
Be careful when using 'zetsumetsu' for human groups; it can sound like you are discussing genocide (絶滅政策 - extermination policy), so use it with extreme caution in political contexts.
In English, 'extinction' is often associated with dinosaurs or the Dodo. In Japan, it is equally associated with modern species like the Toki or the Japanese river otter.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Science Class
- 絶滅の理由は何ですか?
- 化石から絶滅を調べる。
- 大量絶滅の歴史。
- 種の絶滅と進化。
News/Environmental Report
- 絶滅危惧種に指定された。
- 生息地の減少による絶滅。
- 絶滅の恐れがある動物。
- 国際的な絶滅防止策。
Museum Visit
- 絶滅した生き物の展示。
- 絶滅の時期を特定する。
- なぜ絶滅したのでしょうか?
- 絶滅動物の復元模型。
Cultural Discussion
- 伝統文化の絶滅を防ぐ。
- 絶滅寸前の言語。
- 古い習慣が絶滅した。
- 継承者がいなくて絶滅する。
Fantasy/Anime
- 人類の絶滅を阻止する!
- 世界は絶滅に向かっている。
- 絶滅の魔法を使う。
- 最後の生き残りと絶滅。
Amorces de conversation
"最近、絶滅の危機にある動物についてニュースで見ましたか? (Have you seen any news about endangered animals lately?)"
"恐竜が絶滅しなかったら、世界はどうなっていたと思いますか? (If dinosaurs hadn't gone extinct, what do you think the world would be like?)"
"あなたの国で絶滅してしまった有名な動物はいますか? (Are there any famous animals that have gone extinct in your country?)"
"絶滅した動物を科学の力で復活させるべきだと思いますか? (Do you think we should bring back extinct animals using the power of science?)"
"絶滅危惧種を守るために、私たちは何ができるでしょうか? (What can we do to protect endangered species?)"
Sujets d'écriture
もし、あなたが絶滅危惧種を守る科学者だったら、どのアニマルを最初に救いますか? (If you were a scientist protecting endangered species, which animal would you save first?)
「絶滅」という言葉から、どのような感情やイメージを連想しますか? (What emotions or images do you associate with the word 'extinction'?)
現代社会で「絶滅」しつつある良い習慣や文化について書いてください。 (Write about a good habit or culture that is 'going extinct' in modern society.)
生物多様性が失われることが、私たちの生活にどのような影響を与えるか考察してください。 (Consider how the loss of biodiversity affects our lives.)
100年後の地球で、新しく絶滅してしまっているかもしれないものは何ですか? (What might be newly extinct on Earth 100 years from now?)
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo. For a battery, use 'kireru' (切れる). 'Zetsumetsu' is for species or lineages. Using it for a battery would sound like a joke.
No, it is also used for plants (絶滅危惧植物) and metaphorically for cultures, languages, or traditions that are disappearing forever.
'Shinda' means an individual died. 'Zetsumetsu' means every single member of that species is gone.
The word is '絶滅危惧種' (zetsumetsu kigushu). It is a very common compound word in Japanese.
Yes, it frequently appears in N2 and N1 level reading and listening sections, especially those focused on science or the environment.
Generally, no. It sounds like you are talking about the extinction of the human race. If you mean a person died, use 'nakunatta' or 'shinda'.
It is '大量絶滅' (tairyō zetsumetsu). It refers to historical events like the one that killed the dinosaurs.
'Zetsu' (絶) means to cut off or end. 'Metsu' (滅) means to destroy or extinguish.
Sometimes people use '絶滅危惧種' (endangered species) jokingly to describe a person with rare, old-fashioned traits.
Just add 'suru' to make '絶滅する' (to go extinct). Use 'ga' for the subject: 'Kyoutsu ga zetsumetsu shita'.
Teste-toi 200 questions
Write a sentence using 絶滅 about dinosaurs.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about pandas being endangered.
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Explain why bees are important using 絶滅.
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Use 絶滅の危機に瀕している in a sentence about tigers.
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Write about human impact on extinction using 絶滅させる.
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Describe 'mass extinction' in a sentence.
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Write a sentence about an extinct language.
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Use 絶滅から救う in a sentence about conservation.
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Write a formal sentence about climate change and extinction.
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Write a metaphorical sentence about traditional culture.
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Explain the difference between 絶滅 and 全滅.
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Write a sentence about 'de-extinction'.
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Use 絶滅速度 in a sentence.
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Write a sentence about habitat loss.
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Use 絶滅を免れる in a sentence.
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Write about the Red Data Book.
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Write a sentence about the Japanese wolf.
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Use 絶滅の恐れがある in a sentence.
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Write a sentence about the Sixth Extinction.
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Write a sentence about protecting biodiversity.
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Pronounce '絶滅' (zetsumetsu) clearly.
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
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Say 'Dinosaurs went extinct' in Japanese.
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Say 'Endangered species' in Japanese.
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Say 'On the brink of extinction' in Japanese.
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Explain why pandas are famous in Japan using 'zetsumetsu'.
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Say 'We must prevent extinction' in Japanese.
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Say 'Mass extinction' in Japanese.
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Say 'Global warming causes extinction' in Japanese.
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Roleplay: You are a scientist. Tell a reporter that a bird is extinct.
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Say 'Save from extinction' in Japanese.
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Pronounce '絶滅危惧種' (zetsumetsu kigushu).
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Say 'Irreversible process' in Japanese.
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Say 'Linguistic extinction' in Japanese.
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Say 'The Japanese wolf is extinct' in Japanese.
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Say 'Fear of extinction' in Japanese.
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Say 'Verge of extinction' in Japanese.
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Explain the kanji for 'zetsumetsu' in Japanese.
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Say 'Sixth extinction' in Japanese.
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Say 'Habitat loss' in Japanese.
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Say 'Biodiversity loss' in Japanese.
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Listen and write: [Audio: 恐竜は絶滅しました]
Listen and write: [Audio: 絶滅危惧種を守りましょう]
Listen and write: [Audio: 絶滅の危機に瀕している動物]
Listen and identify the animal: [Audio: トキは絶滅の恐れがあります]
Listen and write: [Audio: 大量絶滅は地球の歴史で五回あった]
Listen and identify the cause: [Audio: 乱獲により絶滅した]
Listen and write: [Audio: 絶滅した種を復活させる]
Listen and identify the word: [Audio: ゼンメツではなくゼツメツです]
Listen and write: [Audio: 生物多様性と絶滅の関係]
Listen and identify the status: [Audio: 野生絶滅と判定されました]
Listen and write: [Audio: 絶滅の恐れがある植物]
Listen and identify the era: [Audio: 明治時代に絶滅した]
Listen and write: [Audio: 第六の絶滅が進行中だ]
Listen and identify the target: [Audio: 伝統文化の絶滅を防ぐ]
Listen and write: [Audio: 絶滅の足音が聞こえる]
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Zetsumetsu (絶滅) is the formal Japanese word for 'extinction.' Use it to describe the permanent loss of biological species or cultural traditions. Example: 恐竜は絶滅した (Dinosaurs went extinct).
- Zetsumetsu means biological extinction, where a species or group disappears permanently from Earth.
- It functions as a noun and a suru-verb (絶滅する), typically used for animals, plants, or cultures.
- Commonly seen in news and science contexts, especially regarding the 'Red List' of endangered species.
- Must be distinguished from 'zenmetsu' (annihilation in battle) and 'metsubō' (fall of a civilization).
Causative Usage
Remember to use '絶滅させる' when talking about humans or other factors causing extinction. 'Humans made animals go extinct' is '人間が動物を絶滅させた'.
Writing 'Metsu'
The kanji 滅 has a water radical on the left. Think of water extinguishing a fire (the right side) to remember the meaning 'extinguish'.
The Red List
In Japan, the 'Red Data Book' is the primary source for 'zetsumetsu' statistics. Mentioning this in an essay will show high proficiency.
Environmentalism
This word is almost always found in environmental contexts. If you are discussing nature, this is your go-to word for permanent loss.
Exemple
多くの野生動物が絶滅の危機に瀕しています。
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