自衛隊
Meanings
1
Japan Self-Defense Forces; JSDF
Refers specifically to Japan's post-war military organization. Often used in news and formal contexts.
The Self-Defense Forces are also deployed for disaster relief.
He joined the JSDF.
2
self-defense force
General term for a military force intended for self-defense, applicable to other countries' forces in some contexts, but most commonly understood as Japan's JSDF.
That country has a strong self-defense force.
Usage patterns
- 自衛隊を派遣するto dispatch the Self-Defense Forces
The government dispatched the Self-Defense Forces to the disaster area.
- 自衛隊に入るto join the Self-Defense Forces
My older brother joined the Self-Defense Forces after graduating high school.
- 自衛隊員として〈動詞〉to do something as a member of the Self-Defense Forces
He worked in the disaster area as a member of the Self-Defense Forces.