保護

• Reading: ほご
• Romaji: hogo
• Kanji breakdown: 保 (ho) — preserve, maintain; 護 (go) — guard, protect
• Pronunciation: /ho.ɡo/

Meaning

Protection; care; shelter. Safeguarding someone or something from harm or danger.

A noun and suru verb (保護する, to protect). Used broadly across legal, environmental, and social contexts. Common compounds: 環境保護 (environmental protection), 保護者 (guardian/parent), 生活保護 (welfare/public assistance), 動物保護 (animal protection). More formal and institutional than 守る (to protect).

Examples

1. 絶滅危惧種の動物を保護する活動に参加している。 I'm participating in activities to protect endangered species.
2. 保護者の同意がないと参加できません。 You cannot participate without a parent or guardian's consent.
3. 事故に遭った子猫を保護して動物病院に連れて行った。 I rescued an injured kitten and took it to the vet.

Usage Guide

Context: law, environment, social welfare

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 保 (ho, to preserve/maintain) and 護 (go, to guard/protect). Together, 'preserving and guarding' — comprehensive protection through both maintenance and defence.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal