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日本語
保護者 — meaning in English: A guardian
hogo-sha · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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guardian
遊び
asobi
保護者
hogo-sha
セックス
sekkusu
アルコール
arukōru
挑戦
chōsen
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use '保護者' (hogo-sha) in contexts such as parent-teacher meetings, where a guardian's presence is required to discuss a child's education. Additionally, it can be found in legal documents when designating guardianship or in healthcare settings to identify individuals responsible for a minor's medical decisions.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is '親' (oya), which means 'parent'. While '親' specifically refers to a mother or father, '保護者' encompasses all types of guardians, including relatives and legal guardians. You would choose '保護者' when discussing legal or formal contexts, whereas '親' is more personal.
Culture
'保護者' (hogo-sha) stems from the kanji '保' (ho), meaning 'to protect', and '護' (go), meaning 'to guard'. This word's significance extends beyond mere guardianship; it reflects the deep cultural value placed on protection and care within the family unit in Japanese society. Historically, guardianship roles have been crucial, especially in traditional settings where extended families often shared responsibilities.
FAQ
