Meaning and Usage
The verb '보호하다' means 'to protect' or 'to shelter.' It is commonly used in contexts where someone or something is being guarded or shielded from harm, danger, or damage.
Common Contexts
- Environmental protection: 정부는 환경을 보호하다 (The government protects the environment).
- Personal safety: 부모님이 자녀를 보호하다 (Parents protect their children).
- Object protection: 제품을 충격으로부터 보호하다 (Protect a product from impact).
Collocations and Patterns
- 보호하다 + 대상 (e.g., 환경, 사람, 동물): to protect a target.
- 위험으로부터 보호하다: to protect from danger.
- 법으로 보호하다: to protect by law.
Register and Politeness
'보호하다' is a neutral verb suitable for formal and informal contexts. It is often used in written and spoken language, especially in news, official documents, and everyday conversation.
Common Learner Notes
Learners sometimes confuse '보호하다' with '지키다' (to guard or keep). While both can mean 'to protect,' '보호하다' often implies active protection or sheltering, whereas '지키다' can mean to keep or maintain something as well. Use '보호하다' when emphasizing safeguarding from harm.