絞める

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: Spelling: 絞める. Reading: しめる. Core meaning: to strangle; to choke.
• Basic usage: Representative examples: 劇の終盤には、犯人が被害者の首を絞める場面がある / 指導者は、首を絞める技を練習するときの注意点を説明した.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Three homophonous verbs
  • Strangling or choking is 絞める, tightening a strap or screw is 締める, and closing a door is 閉める. All are read しめる, so use the spelling and object to distinguish them.