Translation and Meaning of: 保つ - tamotsu

The Japanese word 保つ [たもつ] is a verb that carries deep meanings and everyday applications in the language. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in Japanese culture, understanding how and when to use this term can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of 保つ, as well as tips for memorizing it correctly. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, offers clear examples to assist in your learning.

Meaning and usage of 保つ

保つ means "to keep," "to preserve," or "to maintain." It is used in situations where something needs to be sustained in its current state, whether it be a physical object, a relationship, or even a promise. For example, to maintain health (健康を保つ) or to preserve tradition (伝統を保つ) are common uses of this verb.

Unlike other similar , 保つ (tamotsu) implies a continuous and conscious action. It does not refer to something that remains by chance, but rather to an active effort to ensure that something does not deteriorate or change. This nuance is important for those who want to speak Japanese accurately.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 保 is composed of the radical 亻 (person) and 呆, which suggests the idea of "protecting" or "ensuring." Historically, this character was associated with concepts of security and responsibility, such as the protection of territories or assets. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the maintenance of abstract conditions, such as peace or order.

It is worth noting that 保つ is a verb of group 1 (godan), which means that its conjugation follows a specific pattern. Knowing this helps to avoid grammatical errors when forming sentences in the present, past, or negative forms.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to 保つ is to associate it with situations where preservation is essential. Think of phrases like "maintain calm" (冷静を保つ) or "preserve food" (食品を保つ). Repeating these examples in real contexts helps to fix the vocabulary in your memory.

Additionally, pay attention to the kanjis that often appear with 保つ, such as 保持 (maintenance) or 保証 (guarantee). These combinations help to better understand the semantic scope of the word and its advanced uses.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 維持する (iji suru) - Maintain or something
• 維持 (iji) - Maintenance or status
• 保ち続ける (tamotsu tsuzukeru) - Continue to maintain
• 保つこと (tamotsu koto) - The act of maintaining; the action of preserving
• 保つようにする (tamotsu you ni suru) - Make an effort to maintain
• 保つために (tamotsu tame ni) - With the purpose of maintaining
• 保つことができる (tamotsu koto ga dekiru) - To be able to maintain; to be capable of maintaining
• 保つことが必要 (tamotsu koto ga hitsuyou) - It is necessary to maintain
• 保つことが大切 (tamotsu koto ga taisetsu) - It is important to maintain
• 保つことが望ましい (tamotsu koto ga nozomashii) - It is desirable to maintain
• 保つことが重要 (tamotsu koto ga juuyou) - It is crucial to maintain
• 保つことが可能 (tamotsu koto ga kanou) - It is possible to maintain
• 保つことが容易 (tamotsu koto ga youi) - It's easy to maintain
• 保つことが困難 (tamotsu koto ga konnan) - It's hard to maintain
• 保つことが必須 (tamotsu koto ga hissu) - Maintenance is essential
• 保つことが不可欠 (tamotsu koto ga fukaketsu) - Maintaining is essential