1.
self-defense; self-protection; protecting oneself
The act of defending or protecting oneself from physical danger or harm.
護身のために武術を習う。
To learn martial arts for self-defense.
護身用の防犯ブザーを持ち歩いている。
I carry a personal safety alarm for self-protection.
海外旅行では護身の意識を持って行動することが大切だ。
When traveling abroad, it's important to act with an awareness of self-protection.
Composed of 護 (to protect, guard) + 身 (body, self). Focuses on physical self-protection. Most commonly appears in the compound 護身術 (self-defense techniques).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 護身術 — self-defense techniques
- 護身用 — for self-defense, for self-protection
- 護身のため — for the purpose of self-defense
- 護身刀 — a sword carried for self-defense
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 自衛 — self-defense; broader term used in military and national contexts (自衛隊)
- 正当防衛 — legitimate self-defense; the legal term
- 身を守る — to protect oneself; more everyday expression