抑え・押さえ・押え|おさえosae[3]odaka (tail-high)

1. nounweight (e.g. paperweight); pressing down
2. nounkeeping control; exercising authority
3. nounhaving self-control; exercising self-discipline
4. noundefense; guard; deterrence

• Synonym抑止よくしWrittenWritten/formal prose for deterrence, as in 「核抑止」; it is about stopping something before it happens.
• Synonym抑制よくせいWrittenWritten/formal prose for restraint or control, as in 「食欲を抑制」; it focuses on keeping degree or amount in check.
• Related固めかためNeutralRefers to fortifying defenses and to pledges, as in 「固めの杯」 for sealing an alliance; 「抑え」 leans toward holding something down or a closing pitcher.
• Related抑圧よくあつWrittenWritten/formal prose for oppression or suppression, as in 「言論の抑圧」; it implies heavy-handed, coercive power.
• Antonym解放かいほうNeutralMeans release or liberation — the direct opposite of the suppressing 「抑え」.

Use 「抑え」 for pressing down, keeping control, or a weight, as in 「抑えが効く」 and 「抑えの投手」. For restraint say 「抑制」, for deterrence 「抑止」, for oppression by power 「抑圧」; 「解放」 is the opposite.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

1. おさえること。抑止よくし。
2. おさえる物もの。おもし。
3. 敵てきへの防備ぼうび。
4. 列れつなどの殿との。