保養

ほよう

health preservation, recuperation, recreation

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "保養" (ほよう) primarily refers to the act of preserving or restoring health through rest, recuperation, or recreation. It is often used in contexts involving taking a break to recover from fatigue or illness, such as visiting hot springs or resorts.

Common Contexts

"保養" is frequently used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as medical advice or travel related to health. It can describe both the process of recuperation and the places (保養地) known for health benefits.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 保養する: to take rest or recuperate
  • 保養地: a health resort or place for recuperation
  • 十分な保養: sufficient rest or recuperation

These collocations highlight the focus on health and recovery.

Usage Tips

When using "保養," the speaker implies a conscious effort to restore health, often through relaxation or a change of environment. It is more formal than simply saying "休む" (to rest) and often implies a longer or more purposeful break.

A common learner mistake is confusing "保養" with casual rest; remember it carries a nuance of health preservation or recuperation, not just any rest.

Example Sentences

しゅうまつはおんせんでほようして、つかれをいやしたい。

I want to recuperate at a hot spring over the weekend and heal my fatigue.

いしゃはかんじゃにじゅうぶんなほようをすすめた。

The doctor recommended the patient to get plenty of rest and recuperation.

ほようちとしてゆうめいなリゾートでリラックスした。

I relaxed at a resort famous as a health preservation spot.