Quick answer
守 is the kanji for "to protect". A common reading is まも.る (mamoru). You can also practice writing it on this page.
Meaning
to protect
Also : to guard · to defend · to obey
Learn 守 with SRS
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
6 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 守 represents 'GUARD'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of guard.
On-reading: しゅ — remember this sound by associating it with guard. Kun-reading: まも.る.
Example Sentences
子供を守るのが親の責任です。
こどもをまもるのがおやのせきにんです。
Protecting children is a parent's responsibility.
法律やルールを守って行動することが社会の基本だ。
ほうりつやるーるをまもってこうどうすることがしゃかいのきほんだ。
Acting in accordance with laws and rules is the foundation of society.
Vocabulary using 守
Grammar to study at this level
- [Verb dictionary/nai form] + ように～ように (you ni) - So that
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことにする～ことにする (koto ni suru) - Decide to
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことになる～ことになる (koto ni naru) - It has been decided that
- [Noun/Verb te-form] + ばかり～ばかり (bakari) - Only / Nothing but
- [Verb/Adjective plain form] + はずだ～はずだ (hazu da) - Should be / It is expected
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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