擁護

• Reading: ようご
• Romaji: yougo
• Kanji breakdown: 擁 (you) — embrace, hold; 護 (go) — protect, guard
• Pronunciation: /jo.ɯ.go/

Meaning

Protection; defence; support. The act of defending or advocating for someone or something.

A noun and する verb used to describe actively defending, supporting, or advocating for a person, right, or principle. Carries a stronger nuance than simply 'supporting' — it implies standing up for something against opposition or criticism. Common collocations include 人権擁護 (human rights protection), 擁護派 (supporters/advocates), and 憲法を擁護する (to uphold the constitution).

Examples

1. 彼は人権擁護のために活動している。 He is working to protect human rights.
2. 政策を擁護する声明が発表された。 A statement defending the policy was released.
3. 弱い立場の人を擁護することは大切だ。 It's important to stand up for those in vulnerable positions.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, human rights, law, advocacy

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 擁 (you, to embrace/hold) + 護 (go, to protect/guard). Together: 'to hold and protect' — conveying active, embracing defence of someone or something.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal