About
The character "保" originates from an early pictographic concept depicting an adult carrying a child on their back, conveying the fundamental idea of protection and safekeeping. Its structure in the traditional form consolidates this notion, composed of the radical for "person" (人 or its variant 亻) alongside a component historically representing a child, which over time became standardized in shape. From this core meaning of physical nurture and defense, its semantic field broadened considerably to encompass more abstract responsibilities, such as preserving a condition, maintaining an obligation, or offering a formal guarantee. This expansion allowed the character to function in a wide range of contexts, from personal care and guardianship to concepts of insurance and conservation in civil and administrative language.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
你要保守秘密。
政府应该保护环境。
我保证按时完成工作。
保持健康的生活方式很重要。
我们要保障消费者的权益。
这个政策是为了保就业、稳民生。
他投保了一份高额的人寿保险。
这份保险能保你全家平安。