国防

• Reading: こくぼう
• Romaji: kokubō
• Kanji breakdown: 国 (koku) — nation; 防 (bō) — defend, protect, prevent
• Pronunciation: /ko.kɯ.boː/

Meaning

National defence; national security. The protection of a nation's sovereignty, territory, and citizens from external threats.

A central concept in Japanese security policy, especially given the post-WWII constitutional constraints on the military (Article 9). Common collocations include 国防費 (defence budget), 国防方針 (defence policy), and 国防省 (Ministry of Defence — used for foreign equivalents; Japan uses 防衛省). Debate over 国防 intersects with constitutional revision, alliances, and deterrence strategy.

Examples

1. 国防費の増額をめぐり、与野党の間で激しい論戦が繰り広げられた。 A fierce debate erupted between the ruling and opposition parties over the increase in the national defense budget.
2. 自衛隊は憲法の枠内で国防の任務を担っている。 The Self-Defense Forces carry out national defense duties within the framework of the constitution.
3. 同盟国との連携を強化することが日本の国防戦略の核心にある。 Strengthening cooperation with allied nations is at the core of Japan's national defense strategy.

Usage Guide

Context: defence policy, security, parliament, journalism

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Sino-Japanese compound. 国 (koku/kuni) means nation; 防 (bō) means to defend, protect, or prevent (as in 防衛, 防止). Together they denote organised protection of the nation from external threats.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated