保つ

たもつ

to keep, to preserve, to sustain

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

The verb "つ" means to keep or maintain a certain state or condition. It is often used for maintaining health, temperature, calmness, cleanliness, or secrecy.

Usage Notes

  • It implies actively sustaining something over time.
  • Commonly used with abstract states (health, calmness) and physical conditions (temperature).
  • Often appears in contexts emphasizing effort or ability to maintain.

Common Collocations

Contrast

Unlike which focuses on preserving objects or data, つ is more about maintaining ongoing states or conditions.

Example Sentences

He exercises every day to keep his health.

This machine can keep the temperature constant.

She always keeps calm.

This restaurant puts effort into keeping cleanliness.

He is a trustworthy person who can keep secrets.