Translation guide
The English verb 'defend' covers protecting against attack, supporting an idea, and legal representation. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being defended and the nature of the defense.
To guard a person, place, or thing against an enemy, danger, or attack.
The most general verb for protecting or defending someone or something. Can be used for physical defense, keeping rules, or safeguarding values.
彼は家族を敵から守った。
He defended his family from the enemy.
城を守るために戦った。
They fought to defend the castle.
Focuses on preventing an attack or stopping something bad from happening. Often used for defending against abstract threats like criticism or disease.
A formal or technical term for defense, often used in military, sports, or gaming contexts.
チームは最後まで防御した。
The team defended until the end.
To speak or act in support of something that is being criticized or challenged.
To defend or stand up for someone or something, often in a public or formal context. Implies active support against criticism.
彼は自分の意見を擁護した。
He defended his opinion.
弁護士は被告人を擁護した。
The lawyer defended the accused.
Primarily means legal defense, but can also be used for arguing in favor of an idea or person in a debate-like context.
彼はその政策を弁護した。
He defended the policy.
To shield or protect someone from blame or harm, often emotionally or socially. Implies a personal, protective stance.
To represent and argue for a defendant in a legal case.
The standard verb for legal defense. Used for lawyers defending clients.
彼は裁判で被告人を弁護した。
He defended the defendant in court.
To act as a defense attorney. More specific than just 弁護する.
彼女は被告人の弁護人として付いた。
She acted as the defendant's defense attorney.
To compete to retain a championship, title, or status.
Specifically used for defending a title in sports or martial arts. Also used in military contexts for national defense.
彼はチャンピオンのタイトルを防衛した。
He defended his champion title.
Can be used more generally for defending a position or record, but 防衛する is more precise for titles.
首位を守るために全力を尽くした。
They gave their all to defend first place.
守る (mamoru) is the most common and versatile, covering protection of people, places, rules, and abstract things. 防ぐ (fusegu) emphasizes prevention or stopping an attack before it happens. 防御する (bougyo suru) is formal and often used in military, sports, or gaming contexts.
For legal contexts, use 弁護する (bengo suru). 守る would sound like physically protecting the client, not representing them in court.
He lied to defend his friend.