盾・楯|たてtate[1]atamadaka (head-high)
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Which spelling to use
盾盾 is the most common written form of this word and is the recommended choice for beginners. It is written entirely in kanji.
楯楯 is a less common written form than 盾. It is also written entirely in kanji; beginners should choose 盾 instead.
Definitions
- nounshield; buckler; escutcheon
- nounpretext; excuse; grounds (for); justification
Synonyms & antonyms
- Antonym矛ほこNeutralAn offensive weapon — a spear or long pike (「矛を収める」) — set against the defensive 「盾」; the two combine in 「矛盾」.
- Antonym剣けんNeutralA sword, another offensive weapon standing opposite the defensive 「盾」. E.g. 「剣を抜く」.
Use 「盾」 for a shield that blocks attacks. Figuratively it is a protective shield for someone (「盾になる」) or a pretext you hide behind (「法律を盾に取る」). The opposing offensive weapons are 「矛」 and 「剣」; 「矛」 and 「盾」 together form 「矛盾」.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
Kanji in this word
English equivalents
