故人
こじん
kojin
The term "故人" is a formal and respectful way to refer to a person who has passed away. It carries a strong nuance of reverence and mourning, making it the standard term used in official documents, legal contexts, and formal ceremonies.
It is fundamentally different from "死者" (shisha), which is a neutral or clinical term meaning "the dead" or "deceased persons." While "死者" is used in news reports about casualties or in biological/medical contexts, "故人" is used when the speaker wishes to show respect to the individual and their grieving family.
In practical usage, "故人" is most commonly encountered in contexts such as inheritance law, funeral arrangements, and memorial services. It is rarely used in casual, everyday conversation among close friends unless the setting is formal; in such cases, more personal terms like "亡くなった方" (nakunatta kata) are preferred to soften the tone.
Meanings
A person who has died, typically used in a formal or respectful context.