Japanese word

自衛

Pronunciation

Romajijiei

Meaning

  • nounself-defense

Example

自衛のために笛を持ちます。ji ei no ta me ni fue o mo chi ma su

I carry a whistle for self-defense.

Illustration for 自衛 (self-defense)

More examples

夜道では、自衛の意識を持って明るい道を歩きます。yo michi de wa ji ei no i shiki o mo tte aka ru i michi o aru ki ma su

At night, I walk on well-lit streets with self-defense in mind.

Core concept

Describes protecting oneself from harm, danger, or unwanted interference.

Common phrases

  • 自衛のためji ei no ta me

    for self-defense

  • 自衛の手段ji ei no shu dan

    means of self-defense

  • 自衛の意識ji ei no i shiki

    awareness of self-defense

Similar words

護身goshin: Measures taken to protect oneself from physical harm.
保身hoshin: Efforts to preserve one's safety, position, or interests.
防御bōgyo: The act of resisting or preventing an attack or harmful effect.

Definition in Japanese

自分の身や権利などを、外からの危害や侵害から守ること。ji bun no mi ya ken ri na do o soto ka ra no ki gai ya shin gai ka ra mamo ru ko to

Word origin

The Sino-Japanese compound 自 (ji, "self") and 衛 (ei, "guard") forms 自衛 (jiei, "self-defense").

Usage tips

  • In English, self-defense often suggests protection from physical attack, while Japanese 自衛 (jiei) can also include protecting one's rights or interests.

Related words

  • 自衛するjieisurudefend oneselfverb

Word lists with this word