Meaning and Usage
The word "保育" (ほいく) primarily refers to the care, nursing, and nurturing of young children, especially in contexts like daycare or nursery schools. It is commonly used in formal or official contexts related to child-rearing and early childhood education.
Common Contexts
"保育" often appears in compound words such as "保育園" (daycare center) and "保育士" (nursery teacher). It emphasizes the aspect of caring for children’s daily needs and supporting their growth.
Collocations and Patterns
- 保育園 (ほいくえん): daycare center, a place where children are cared for during the day.
- 保育士 (ほいくし): nursery teacher, a professional who provides childcare.
- 保育制度 (ほいくせいど): childcare system, referring to policies and frameworks for child care.
Register and Nuance
"保育" is a formal term often used in official documents, education, and social welfare contexts. It is less casual than words like "子育て" (child-rearing), which is more general and informal.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "保育" with "育児" (いくじ), which also means child-rearing but focuses more on parenting at home. "保育" usually implies institutional care or professional support, while "育児" is broader and includes parental care at home.