Are These Sentences Correct: People Who Die of Murder or People Who Die from Getting Murdered

When it comes to writing about crimes, especially murder, you want to ensure your language is clear, concise, and grammatically correct. This article aims to clarify the correct usage of phrases like “people who die of murder” and “people who die from getting murdered.”

Tautological Phrases Explained

The phrases “people who die of murder” and “people who die from getting murdered” can be considered tautological because they use words that inherently convey the same meaning, making the phrase redundant and potentially confusing.

For example, the word “murder” means to intentionally kill someone. Thus, saying “people who die of murder” or “people who die from getting murdered” is redundant because it essentially repeats the same idea twice. You wouldn’t say “he died of being killed” because the act of being killed already implies death.

Recommended Phrases

Instead of using these tautological phrases, it is best to use more concise and direct language.

1. People Who Are Murdered

The most accepted and grammatically correct form is to say “people who are murdered.” This phrase clearly conveys that the individuals are victims of a crime without any redundancy. For instance:

“The people who are murdered in this incident were found in their home.”

2. Murder Victims

To make the sentence shorter and more impactful, you can use the term “murder victims.” This term is commonly used in news reports and legal documentation. For example:

“The murder victims in the incident spoke out about their experiences in a press conference.”

This phrase conveys the same meaning while being more concise and easier to read.

Best Practices and Recommendations

When writing about murder or any tragic event, it is important to:

1. Avoid Redundancy

Use language that is clear and straightforward, avoiding any unnecessary repetition or tautology. Writing clearly helps readers better understand the content and avoids confusion.

2. Use Concise Phrases

Conciseness is key in effective communication, especially in news reporting and legal contexts. Shorter, more impactful phrases like “murder victims” make the text more accessible and reader-friendly.

3. Maintain Sensitivity

When dealing with sensitive topics such as murder, it is crucial to maintain a respectful and empathetic tone in your writing. This includes considering the feelings of victims’ families and the broader community.

In conclusion, it is best to use “people who are murdered” or the term “murder victims” to convey the meaning clearly and concisely. Both options are preferable to the tautological phrases.