Translation guide
The English word 'protecting' covers a range of actions from physically guarding someone to safeguarding abstract things like rights or the environment. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being protected and the nuance of the action.
To keep someone or something safe from physical harm, often by being present and watchful.
The most general verb for protecting or defending. Can be used for people, places, rules, promises, etc.
He fought to protect his family.
The police are protecting the town.
Often used in formal or literary contexts, emphasizing protection or defense, especially in compounds like 護衛 (bodyguard).
He gave his life to protect his country.
Specifically means to guard or escort someone, often used for VIP protection.
Security police are protecting the president.
To keep something non-physical safe from harm, loss, or violation.
Again the most common choice. Works for rules, traditions, rights, nature, etc.
We must protect the natural environment.
Implies protective care, often used for vulnerable groups, endangered species, or data protection.
Means to defend or champion someone's rights, opinions, or interests, often in a legal or advocacy context.
To cover or shield someone or something from an external threat like rain, wind, or enemy fire.
Means to prevent or defend against something harmful. Often used for weather, attacks, or diseases.
This coat protects (me) from the wind.
To block or intercept something physically, like light, sound, or a blow.
Can also be used in this sense, especially for protecting someone from harm.
To maintain a winning position or championship.
Used in sports contexts to mean defending a lead or title.
The team protected their lead.
He defended (protected) his championship title.
Specifically means to defend a title, often used in combat sports or formal contexts.
The boxer defended (protected) his title.
守る (mamoru) is the general verb for protecting, while 保護する (hogo suru) implies protective care, often used for vulnerable entities or in legal/technical contexts. For everyday physical protection, 守る is more natural.
A mother protects her child from danger.
Activities to protect endangered species.
In some set phrases, English uses 'protect' but Japanese uses a different verb. For example, 'protect your eyes' might be 目を守る (me o mamoru) but 'protect your skin from the sun' is often 日焼けを防ぐ (hiyake o fusegu, prevent sunburn). Consider the natural collocation.
Protect your skin with sunscreen.
A law was enacted to protect consumer rights.
Rare animals are protected in this area.
Measures to protect personal information are necessary.
The lawyer defended (protected) the client's rights.
I protected myself from the rain with an umbrella.
カーテンが日光を遮っている。
The curtains are blocking (protecting from) the sunlight.
He protected me from danger.
Protect yourself from direct sunlight with a hat.