守る

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 守る is read as まもる and is a transitive verb meaning to keep a time, promise, or rule or to protect a person, animal, or other object.
• Basic usage: Observing an agreed standard appears in 時間を守る, while protection appears in 森の動物を守る.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Observance and protection
  • It can mean complying with an agreed time or promise or shielding something from harm.
• Difference from 保護する
  • 保護する formally centers on protecting or preserving something; 守る also widely covers keeping promises and rules.