守ってあげる
mamotte ageru
The phrase "I will protect you" in Japanese is 守ってあげる (mamotte ageru).
This phrase expresses a promise to keep someone safe from harm or danger. It is frequently used in Japanese media, such as anime or manga, to express a character's devotion or heroic intent.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the te-form of the verb mamoru (to protect) and the auxiliary verb ageru (to give/do something for someone's benefit).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
守ってあげる is an informal form commonly used between lovers, close friends or by a superior to an inferior. For a polite version, use 守ってあげます.
How do you pronounce it?
mamotte ageru
Did you know?
- The verb 守る can also be used to describe keeping a promise or following a rule, meaning 'to protect' and 'to obey' share the same word.
- A person might carry a omamori, a small fabric amulet from a shrine, which acts as a physical objectification of the verb 守る.
- Because あげる carries a nuance of doing something for someone's benefit, using it toward a social superior could unintentionally sound patronizing or condescending.
Examples in context
- Ore ga kimi o mamoru ze. Shinkokyū shite, mae o mite. (俺が君を守るぜ。深呼吸して、前を見て)I will protect you. Take a deep breath and look forward.
- 私があなたを守ってあげる。watashi ga anata o mamotte ageru.I will protect you.
- ずっと守ってあげるから、安心して。zutto mamotte ageru kara, anshin shite.I will protect you forever, so don't worry.
- 君のことを必ず守ってあげるよ。kimi no koto o kanarazu mamotte ageru yo.I will definitely protect you.
Example conversation
A young couple walking home under the stars.
- 結衣 Yui少し怖いところがあるね。sukoshi kowai tokoro ga aru ne.It is a bit scary here.
- 陽太 Yota大丈夫。僕が守ってあげる。daijoubu. boku ga mamotte ageru.It's okay. I will protect you.
- 結衣 Yuiありがとう、陽太さん。arigatou, youta san.Thank you, Youta.
- 陽太 Yotaずっとそばにいるよ。zutto soba ni iru yo.I'll be by your side always.
