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B2 noun, verb #5,000 most common 8 min read

遵守

junshu Top 5,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 遵守 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 遵守 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 遵守 (junshu) yet. It is too difficult. Instead, you use the simple verb 守る (mamoru), which means 'to keep' or 'to protect.' For example, '約束を守る' (keep a promise) or 'ルールを守る' (follow the rules). 遵守 is a very formal word found in news and legal papers. At this stage, just remember that in Japan, following rules is very important. You might see the kanji 守 (protect) on signs. If you see it, it usually means 'Keep' or 'Protect.' For a beginner, thinking about 'following rules' is the first step toward understanding 遵守. Imagine you are playing a game; you must 'mamoru' the rules. That is the basic idea. You will learn the formal word 遵守 much later when you study for business or law. For now, focus on 守る. It is the foundation. If you can say '交通ルールを守ります' (I follow traffic rules), you are doing great! This simple habit of following rules is what 遵守 is all about in a more grown-up, professional world. Just think of 遵守 as the 'super polite and official' version of 守る that you will use when you have a big job in Japan.

At the A2 level, you might start to see 遵守 (junshu) in formal signs or school announcements, but you still mostly use 守る (mamoru). 遵守 is a noun and a verb that means 'to follow a law or rule strictly.' At this level, you should start recognizing the kanji. The second kanji 守 is the same one in 守る. The first kanji 遵 is more complex. You might hear it in a sentence like '規則を遵守しましょう' (Let's observe the rules) in a very formal school assembly. It is important to know that 遵守 is used for 'official' things. If you are talking about your hobby or a promise to a friend, don't use it. Use it for things like 'traffic laws' or 'school regulations.' A2 learners should focus on the difference between casual and formal. 遵守 is the formal way to say you are a good, law-abiding person. You might see it in a library: '利用規約を遵守してください' (Please follow the usage rules). It sounds much more serious than 'mamoru.' When you see this word, it means the rule is very important and you should not break it. It's a 'strong' word for being a good member of society.

At the B1 level, you are moving into intermediate Japanese and should begin using 遵守 (junshu) in formal writing and business contexts. You likely understand that 守る is for general use, but 遵守 is necessary for professional documents, emails to superiors, and understanding the news. At this stage, you should be able to form sentences like '法律を遵守することは国民の義務です' (It is the duty of citizens to comply with the law). You will also notice it in 'Compliance' (コンプライアンス) contexts in companies. B1 learners should practice using 遵守 with the particle 'o' (を). It is a Suru-verb, so it becomes '遵守する.' You should also learn the noun form, which is often used in compound words like '法令遵守' (compliance with laws). This is a very common term in the Japanese business world. If you work in Japan, you will hear your boss say this during meetings. It shows that the company cares about being ethical. You should also be able to distinguish it from 従う (shitagau), which is more about obeying a person's orders. 遵守 is specifically for written rules and laws. Using 遵守 correctly at this level makes your Japanese sound much more professional and reliable.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of 遵守 (junshu) and use it naturally in professional and academic settings. You understand the nuance that 遵守 implies a strict, literal adherence to a code, law, or agreement. At this level, you can handle complex sentences and understand the legal implications of the word. For example, you might discuss '契約の遵守' (compliance with a contract) or '倫理規定の遵守' (adherence to ethical codes). You should also be aware of the alternative spelling 順守 and know that while both are read the same, 遵守 is the preferred term in legal and official government documents. B2 learners should be comfortable using adverbs like 厳格に (strictly) or 忠実に (faithfully) with 遵守 to add emphasis. You are also expected to understand the negative form '不遵守' (non-compliance) and how it is used in reports of corporate misconduct. At this level, your ability to use 遵守 correctly reflects your understanding of Japanese corporate culture and legal standards. It is not just about the word itself, but about conveying a sense of professional responsibility and integrity. You should be able to explain why a company must 遵守 certain environmental or safety standards during a business presentation.

At the C1 level, you should be able to use 遵守 (junshu) with precision in highly specialized fields such as law, medicine, or high-level corporate management. You understand the subtle differences between 遵守 and related legal terms like 履行 (fulfillment), 準拠 (conformity), and 順応 (adaptation). You can engage in deep discussions about the 'rule of law' (法の支配) and the societal importance of '法令遵守' (compliance). At this level, you might use 遵守 in a sentence like '国際人道法の遵守は、紛争地域における人権保護の要である' (The observance of international humanitarian law is the cornerstone of protecting human rights in conflict zones). You are also capable of identifying when 遵守 is used rhetorically in political speeches to emphasize a commitment to order. You understand the historical and kanji-based nuances, such as why the 'Jun' in 遵守 (遵) implies following a path or a teaching. Your usage of the word is not just grammatically correct but culturally and contextually sophisticated. You can write formal reports, legal briefs, or academic papers where 遵守 is a central concept, and you can navigate the nuances of 'internal compliance' versus 'statutory compliance' with ease. You are also sensitive to the tone of the word, knowing exactly when its gravity is required and when a lighter term might suffice.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like or near-native mastery of 遵守 (junshu). You can use it in the most complex legal and philosophical discourses. You understand its role in the historical development of Japanese legal language and its relation to the concept of 'Giri' (social obligation) and 'Hō' (law). You can analyze the implications of 遵守 in constitutional law or international treaties, and you can participate in high-level negotiations where the exact phrasing of 'compliance clauses' is critical. A C2 learner might use the word in an academic treatise: '法の形式的遵守にとどまらず、その精神を体現することが法の支配の真髄である' (The essence of the rule of law lies not just in the formal observance of the law, but in embodying its spirit). You are also aware of the most obscure collocations and can use the word with a level of nuance that accounts for the specific legal tradition of Japan compared to other systems. You can effortlessly switch between 遵守 and its various synonyms to achieve the perfect rhetorical effect in any medium, from a legal defense to a philosophical essay on ethics. Your understanding is so deep that you can even critique the use of the word in public discourse, recognizing when it is used to project an image of integrity that may not match reality.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

遵守 in 30 Seconds

遵守 (Junshu) is a formal Japanese term meaning 'compliance' or 'strict adherence' to laws, rules, and agreements, primarily used in professional and legal settings.
It is a Suru-verb (遵守する) and a noun, often found in contexts like corporate governance, traffic laws, and international treaties to emphasize meticulous observance.
Unlike the common verb 'mamoru,' 遵守 carries a heavy, official tone and is never used for casual promises or informal social situations between friends.
Commonly paired with adverbs like 'strictly' (厳格に), it is essential for expressing professional integrity and the duty of following established statutory regulations.

The Japanese word 遵守 (じゅんしゅ, junshu) is a formal noun and Suru-verb that translates to 'compliance,' 'adherence,' or 'observance' in English. It describes the act of strictly following laws, regulations, ethical standards, or contractual agreements. Unlike the more common verb 守る (mamoru), which can mean 'to protect' or 'to keep a promise' in casual contexts, 遵守 is reserved for formal, legal, and professional environments where the stakes of non-compliance are high. In Japanese society, where social harmony and the rule of law are deeply respected, 遵守 represents an essential virtue of a responsible citizen and a professional entity. It is the backbone of corporate governance and public safety.

Legal Context: In the legal world, 遵守 is the standard term used in statutes to mandate that individuals or organizations follow specific codes of conduct or safety protocols. It implies a rigorous, unwavering commitment to the letter of the law.

Corporate Governance: Companies often use the term in their 'Compliance Manuals' (コンプライアンス・マニュアル) to refer to the adherence to internal rules and external regulations, ensuring ethical business practices.

企業は環境規制を厳格に遵守しなければならない。 (Companies must strictly comply with environmental regulations.)

交通ルールの遵守は、歩行者の安全を守るために不可欠だ。 (Observance of traffic rules is essential to protect the safety of pedestrians.)

Etymological Nuance: The first kanji 遵 (Jun) means to 'obey' or 'follow a path,' while 守 (Shu) means to 'protect' or 'guard.' Together, they imply that by following the rules, one is protecting the integrity of the system.

彼は常に倫理規定を遵守する姿勢を崩さない。 (He never wavers in his stance of always adhering to ethical codes.)

契約事項の不遵守は、契約解除の理由となり得る。 (Non-compliance with contract terms can be a reason for contract termination.)

社会の秩序を保つためには、ルールの遵守が欠かせない。 (To maintain social order, the observance of rules is indispensable.)

Understanding 遵守 is vital for anyone working in Japan or dealing with Japanese legal texts. It conveys a sense of duty and meticulousness that defines high-level Japanese professional conduct. Whether it is environmental standards, labor laws, or international treaties, this word is the go-to choice for expressing the concept of 'doing things by the book' without exception.

Using 遵守 correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a Suru-verb (遵守する) or as a noun (遵守). It is almost always paired with the object particle を (o) when used as a verb, where the object is the law, rule, or agreement being followed. For example, '法律を遵守する' (follow the law). As a noun, it often appears in compound structures like '遵守義務' (obligation to comply) or '遵守事項' (matters to be observed).

Verb Construction: The verb form 遵守する is typically used in formal speech or writing to declare an action of adherence. It is transitive, meaning it requires a direct object.

Noun Usage: When used as a noun, it often signifies the concept of compliance itself. You will see it on signs, in contracts, and as part of formal titles within a company.

全ての従業員は就業規則を厳格に遵守しなければならない。 (All employees must strictly adhere to the work regulations.)

本契約の条項の遵守を怠った場合、罰則が科される。 (If you fail to observe the terms of this contract, penalties will be imposed.)

Adverbial Modifiers: Commonly paired with adverbs like 厳格に (genkaku ni - strictly), 忠実に (chuujitsu ni - faithfully), or 徹底的に (tetteiteki ni - thoroughly) to emphasize the level of commitment.

国際的な安全基準を遵守することで、信頼を築く。 (Build trust by complying with international safety standards.)

法令遵守は、企業の社会的責任の基本である。 (Compliance with laws and regulations is the basis of corporate social responsibility.)

マニュアルの遵守を徹底させる。 (Enforce thorough adherence to the manual.)

In summary, 遵守 operates seamlessly in formal Japanese to denote the action of keeping to rules. It is a 'heavy' word, carrying the weight of legal and social obligation. When using it, ensure the context involves a set of established rules or standards. You wouldn't '遵守' a promise to meet a friend for coffee, but you would certainly '遵守' the speed limit or the privacy policy of a website.

You are most likely to encounter 遵守 in formal, institutionalized settings. It is a staple of the evening news, particularly in segments discussing corporate scandals or new legislative changes. In the Japanese workplace, especially in large corporations or government offices, 遵守 is a keyword in 'Compliance' (コンプライアンス) training.

News and Media: News anchors use it when reporting on whether a company followed safety protocols during an accident or whether a political figure adhered to campaign finance laws.

Business Environments: During internal meetings, managers might emphasize the 遵守 of the company's code of ethics to prevent legal repercussions. It appears in employee handbooks and contracts constantly.

「法令を遵守し、誠実な経営を目指します。」 (We will comply with laws and aim for sincere management.)

「競技ルールの遵守がスポーツマンシップの基本です。」 (Compliance with competition rules is the basis of sportsmanship.)

Legal and Government Documents: When applying for visas, permits, or signing official government forms, you will often see checkboxes or statements requiring you to agree to the 遵守 of Japanese laws.

「個人情報保護法を遵守しております。」 (We are complying with the Personal Information Protection Act.)

「締切厳守（しめきりげんしゅ）」は遵守と似ていますが、特に対象が『時間』の時に使われます。 (Strict adherence to deadlines is similar, but used specifically for time.)

「本学の倫理指針を遵守して研究を行ってください。」 (Please conduct your research in compliance with this university's ethical guidelines.)

Whether you are reading a privacy policy on a Japanese website, watching a drama about lawyers, or attending a business seminar, 遵守 will appear as the definitive term for obedience to rules. It carries a gravitas that simple words lack, signaling that the rules are not just suggestions but mandatory constraints.

The most frequent mistake learners make with 遵守 is using it in contexts that are too casual. Because it is a highly formal word, using it with friends or in everyday situations can sound unnaturally stiff or even sarcastic. Another common error involves confusing it with similar-sounding or similar-meaning words like 従う (shitagau) or 守る (mamoru).

Over-Formality: Do not use 遵守 for personal promises. For example, saying '約束を遵守します' to a friend sounds like you are signing a legal contract for a coffee date. Use '約束を守る' instead.

Confusion with 従う (Shitagau): 従う means to 'obey' a person, an order, or a trend. 遵守 specifically refers to laws and rules. You 遵守 the law (rule), but you 従う your boss (person).

❌ 友達との約束を遵守する。 (Too formal)
✅ 友達との約束を守る。

❌ 上司の命令を遵守する。 (Incorrect object)
✅ 上司の命令に従う。

Spelling Confusion: 遵守 vs 順守: Both are read as 'Junshu.' 遵守 is the standard legal term. 順守 was introduced to use a more common kanji (順), but the Supreme Court and legal documents still prefer 遵守. Stick to 遵守 in writing.

❌ 法律を遵守しないことは良い。 (Grammatically okay, but socially unacceptable!)
✅ 法令遵守は社会人の基本です。

❌ 彼は私の意見を遵守した。 (Opinions are not laws)
✅ 彼は私の意見に同意した。

「マニュアルを遵守してください」と言われたら、一言一句違わずに従う必要があります。 (If told to '遵守' a manual, you must follow it to the letter.)

Finally, remember that 遵守 is a transitive verb. It requires an object marked with を. Forgetting the particle or using に (ni) is a common grammatical slip for learners who are used to verbs like 従う (which takes に).

To master 遵守, it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. While they all touch upon the idea of following something, their nuances and typical objects vary significantly.

遵守 (Junshu) vs. 守る (Mamoru): 守る is the broad, everyday term for 'keep' or 'protect.' 遵守 is the technical, formal version for 'compliance' with rules. You '守る' your family, but you '遵守' the constitution.

遵守 (Junshu) vs. 従う (Shitagau): 従う focuses on the relationship of obedience—obeying a person or an order. 遵守 focuses on the static rule or law itself. You '従う' a commander, but you '遵守' the protocol.

履行 (りこう, Rikou): Specifically means 'fulfillment' or 'performance' of a duty or contract. Use this for 'carrying out' the terms of a deal.

服従 (ふくじゅう, Fukujuu): This means 'submission' or 'absolute obedience.' It has a stronger, sometimes negative connotation of yielding to power.

固守 (こしゅ, Koshu): Means to 'adhere stubbornly' or 'stick firmly' to a position or tradition. It often implies a resistance to change.

準拠 (じゅんきょ, Junkyo): Means 'based on' or 'in accordance with.' It is used for standards or models. 'ISO規格に準拠する' (Based on ISO standards).

遵守 vs 順守: As mentioned, 遵守 is the primary legal spelling. 順守 is often used in media and general business writing because '順' is a more common kanji than '遵'. They are interchangeable in meaning, but 遵守 is more formal.

「契約の履行を求める」 (Request fulfillment of the contract) vs 「契約を遵守する」 (Comply with the contract).

Choosing the right synonym depends on whether you want to emphasize the act of carrying something out (履行), the relationship with authority (従う), or the formal adherence to a code (遵守). For B2 learners, mastering these distinctions is key to achieving natural and precise Japanese communication in professional contexts.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 遵 contains the 'walking' radical (辶), emphasizing that compliance is an active journey or path one takes, not just a static state.

Pronunciation Guide

UK dʒuːn.ʃuː

US dʒun.ʃu

Japanese has pitch accent rather than stress. 遵守 typically has an 'Atamadaka' (head-high) or 'Heiban' (flat) pitch depending on the dialect, but in standard Tokyo Japanese, it is often pronounced with a flat pitch (Heiban).

Rhymes With

軍手 (Gunte - work gloves) 運転 (Unten - driving) 寸評 (Sunpyou - brief comment) 春愁 (Shunshuu - spring melancholy) 吸収 (Kyuushuu - absorption) 改修 (Kaishuu - repair) 研修 (Kenshuu - training) 本州 (Honshuu - Honshu island)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'Jun' as 'Jan'.
Elongating the final 'u' into 'shuu' (which could mean 'week' or 'collection').
Confusing the 'sh' sound with 's' (saying 'jun-su').
Using English stress on the first syllable, making it sound like 'JUN-shu'.
Failing to clearly distinguish the 'n' sound before the 'sh' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The kanji 遵 is complex and not used in many other common words.

Writing 5/5

Writing 遵 correctly requires practice with the stroke order of the radical and the inner component.

Speaking 3/5

The pronunciation is straightforward, but using it in the right context is tricky.

Listening 3/5

Clear sounds, but can be confused with other 'Jun' words if not paying attention.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

守る (Mamoru) 法律 (Houritsu) 規則 (Kisoku) 契約 (Keiyaku) 義務 (Gimu)

Learn Next

履行 (Rikou) 違反 (Ihan) 抵触 (Teishoku) 規範 (Kihan) 統制 (Tousei)

Advanced

コンプライアンス (Compliance) ガバナンス (Governance) 公序良俗 (Public order and morals) 信義則 (Principle of good faith)

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs (Transitive)

法律を遵守する (Comply with the law).

Noun + no + Noun

規則の遵守 (Compliance with the rules).

Compound Nouns (Kango)

法令遵守 (Legal compliance).

Adverb + Verb

厳格に遵守する (Strictly comply).

Negative Noun Prefix 'Fu-'

不遵守 (Non-compliance).

Examples by Level

ルールを守ります。

I follow the rules.

A1 uses 'mamoru' instead of 'junshu'.

しんごうを守ってください。

Please follow the traffic light.

Using 'mamoru' for safety rules.

やくそくを守りましょう。

Let's keep our promise.

A1 context for keeping rules/promises.

がっこうのきそくを守る。

Follow school rules.

Simple verb-object structure.

時間を守ることは大切です。

It is important to be on time.

Using 'mamoru' for time.

きまりを守りなさい。

Obey the rules.

Imperative form of 'mamoru'.

みんなでルールを守ろう。

Let's all follow the rules together.

Volitional form.

正しいルールを守る。

Follow the correct rules.

Adjective modifying the noun.

校則を遵守しましょう。

Let's observe the school regulations.

Formal 'junshu' used in school settings.

交通規則を遵守してください。

Please comply with traffic regulations.

Formal request in public safety.

彼はいつもルールを遵守する。

He always complies with the rules.

Present tense 'junshu suru'.

図書館の決まりを遵守します。

I will observe the library rules.

Polite form 'shimasu'.

きそくの遵守が必要です。

Observance of the rules is necessary.

Noun form followed by 'no'.

安全のためにルールを遵守する。

Follow the rules for safety.

Purpose clause with 'tame ni'.

マナーを遵守することが大切だ。

It is important to observe manners.

Noun clause with 'koto'.

正しい手続きを遵守した。

I followed the correct procedure.

Past tense.

社員は就業規則を遵守すべきだ。

Employees should comply with the work regulations.

Using 'subeki' (should) with 'junshu'.

わが社は法令遵守を徹底している。

Our company enforces strict legal compliance.

Compound noun 'hourei junshu'.

契約内容を厳格に遵守する。

Strictly comply with the contract details.

Adverb 'genkaku ni' modifying the verb.

環境基準を遵守しなければならない。

We must comply with environmental standards.

Must form 'nakereba naranai'.

個人情報の取り扱いを遵守する。

Comply with the handling of personal information.

Formal business context.

規則を遵守しないと罰則がある。

If you don't follow the rules, there are penalties.

Conditional 'to'.

安全マニュアルの遵守を求める。

Request observance of the safety manual.

Noun form as an object.

倫理規定を遵守して行動する。

Act in compliance with the ethical code.

Te-form for sequential actions.

企業倫理を遵守することは社会的責任だ。

Complying with corporate ethics is a social responsibility.

B2 level abstract nouns.

本協定の条項を誠実に遵守する。

Faithfully comply with the terms of this agreement.

Formal adverb 'seijitsu ni'.

法令遵守体制の強化が求められている。

Strengthening the legal compliance system is required.

Passive voice 'motomerarete iru'.

公認会計士は職業倫理を遵守すべきだ。

Certified Public Accountants should adhere to professional ethics.

Specific professional context.

国際的な安全基準を遵守し、品質を高める。

Comply with international safety standards and improve quality.

Compound sentence with 'shite' implied.

規則の不遵守が大きな事故を招いた。

Non-compliance with the rules led to a major accident.

Negative noun 'fujunshu'.

秘密保持義務を遵守することを誓約する。

Pledge to comply with the confidentiality obligation.

Formal verb 'seiyaku suru'.

競技者はドーピング規定を遵守しなければならない。

Athletes must comply with doping regulations.

Specific regulatory context.

法の支配を維持するには、適正な法の遵守が不可欠である。

To maintain the rule of law, proper observance of the law is indispensable.

High-level legal philosophy.

条約の遵守義務は、国際法の基本原則の一つである。

The obligation to comply with treaties is one of the basic principles of international law.

International law terminology.

企業はコンプライアンスの観点から、法令を遵守すべきである。

From the perspective of compliance, companies should observe the law.

Using 'kanten kara' (from the perspective of).

研究倫理の遵守は、科学的誠実性の根幹をなす。

Observance of research ethics forms the core of scientific integrity.

Abstract academic language.

当局は、規制の遵守状況を厳格に監視している。

The authorities are strictly monitoring the status of regulatory compliance.

Noun compound 'junshu joukyou'.

憲法の遵守は、公務員の最も重要な責務である。

Observing the constitution is the most important duty of public officials.

Constitutional law context.

知的財産権の遵守が、イノベーションを促進する。

Observance of intellectual property rights promotes innovation.

Economic/Legal context.

指針を遵守することで、業務の透明性を確保する。

Ensure business transparency by adhering to the guidelines.

Instrumental 'de'.

法の精神を没却した形式的な遵守は、時に正義に反する。

Formal observance that ignores the spirit of the law sometimes goes against justice.

Highly advanced vocabulary like 'bokkyaku'.

国際人道法の遵守を如何に実効的なものにするかが問われている。

The question is how to make the observance of international humanitarian law effective.

Advanced phrasing 'ikan ni...ka'.

契約の遵守は、信義誠実の原則に基づくべきである。

Compliance with a contract should be based on the principle of good faith and sincerity.

Legal principle 'shingiseijitsu no gensoku'.

環境保護に関する国際的規範の遵守が急務となっている。

Compliance with international norms regarding environmental protection has become an urgent matter.

Urgency 'kyuumu'.

倫理的遵守の欠如は、組織の崩壊を招きかねない。

A lack of ethical compliance could potentially lead to the collapse of the organization.

Potential danger 'kanenai'.

ガバナンスの強化には、内部統制と法令遵守の統合が必要だ。

Strengthening governance requires the integration of internal controls and legal compliance.

Business management theory.

社会規範の遵守は、個人の自由と共同体の利益の均衡点にある。

Observance of social norms lies at the equilibrium point between individual freedom and community interest.

Social philosophy.

条約の不遵守に対する制裁措置の是非が議論されている。

The pros and cons of sanctions against non-compliance with treaties are being debated.

Complex topic 'zehi'.

Synonyms

守る服従準拠維持履行

Antonyms

違反逸脱背信

Common Collocations

法律を遵守する

法令遵守 (ほうれいじゅんしゅ)

厳格に遵守する

契約を遵守する

倫理規定を遵守する

遵守事項 (じゅんしゅじこう)

遵守義務 (じゅんしゅぎむ)

マニュアルを遵守する

徹底的に遵守する

不遵守 (ふじゅんしゅ)

Common Phrases

法令遵守の精神

— The spirit of compliance with the law. It refers to the underlying attitude of respecting legal boundaries.

法令遵守の精神を養うことが重要だ。

コンプライアンス遵守

— Observance of compliance. Although redundant, it is frequently used in Japanese business to emphasize following rules.

全社を挙げてコンプライアンス遵守に取り組む。

規約の遵守をお願いします

— Please comply with the terms of use. A standard polite request on websites or for services.

利用規約の遵守をお願いします。

安全遵守

— Safety compliance. Used on construction sites and in factories to remind workers to follow safety rules.

安全遵守をスローガンに掲げる。

ルールの遵守を徹底する

— Ensure thorough adherence to rules. Used by management to tell staff they must follow rules without fail.

社内ルールの遵守を徹底する。

契約の遵守を求める

— Demand compliance with a contract. Used when one party is not doing what they promised.

相手方に契約の遵守を求める。

倫理的遵守

— Ethical compliance. Following not just the law, but the right moral path.

倫理的遵守を欠いた行動は許されない。

国際規範の遵守

— Observance of international norms. Used in diplomacy and global business.

日本は国際規範の遵守を重視している。

手順の遵守

— Adherence to procedures. Crucial in technical or medical fields.

手術手順の遵守が患者の命を救う。

期限の遵守

— Observance of deadlines. Similar to 'deadline strictness' (shimekiri genshu).

提出期限の遵守は社会人の基本だ。

Often Confused With

遵守 vs 順守 (Junshu)

Identical reading and meaning. 遵守 is the legal standard, while 順守 is often used in newspapers for simplicity.

遵守 vs 厳守 (Genshu)

Specifically used for being strict about time or deadlines (e.g., 締切厳守).

遵守 vs 遵法 (Junpou)

Specifically means 'abiding by the law' as a concept or attitude (e.g., 遵法精神).

Idioms & Expressions

"締切厳守 (しめきりげんしゅ)"

— Strictly observing a deadline. While not using the word 'junshu' itself, it uses the same 'shu' (protect/keep) and is the most common time-related version.

レポートは締切厳守でお願いします。

Business/Academic

"法を遵守して道を外さず"

— Following the law and not straying from the path. A metaphorical way to describe an upright life.

彼は法を遵守して道を外さず生きてきた。

Literary

"規律を遵守するは武士の本懐"

— Observing discipline is the true satisfaction of a samurai. A historical-style phrase about honor.

規律を遵守するは武士の本懐なり。

Archaic/Dramatic

"一言一句を遵守する"

— To follow every single word and phrase. Implies literal, perfect adherence without changing anything.

マニュアルの一言一句を遵守する。

Formal

"鉄の掟を遵守する"

— To observe an 'iron rule.' Used for extremely strict, unbreakable rules.

組織の鉄の掟を遵守する。

Dramatic

"公序良俗を遵守する"

— To observe public order and morals. A legal phrase used in contracts to mean 'behave decently.'

公序良俗を遵守して行動してください。

Legal

"信義を遵守する"

— To observe faith and loyalty. Following the spirit of trust in a relationship.

長年の友としての信義を遵守する。

Formal

"不文律を遵守する"

— To observe unwritten rules. Following social norms that aren't written down.

村の不文律を遵守する必要がある。

Sociological

"中立を遵守する"

— To observe neutrality. Common in international relations or reporting.

報道機関は中立を遵守すべきだ。

Formal

"誓約を遵守する"

— To observe a solemn pledge or oath.

神に立てた誓約を遵守する。

Formal/Religious

Easily Confused

遵守 vs 従う (Shitagau)

Both involve following something.

遵守 is for laws/rules; 従う is for people/orders/trends. You 遵守 the law, but you 従う your boss.

指示に従う vs 法律を遵守する

遵守 vs 守る (Mamoru)

Basic meaning is the same.

守る is general and casual; 遵守 is formal and technical. You 守る a secret, but you 遵守 a privacy policy.

秘密を守る vs プライバシーポリシーを遵守する

遵守 vs 履行 (Rikou)

Both used in contracts.

遵守 is about 'observing' the rules; 履行 is about 'carrying out' the specific actions/duties required.

契約を遵守する (Comply) vs 債務を履行する (Perform/Pay)

遵守 vs 準拠 (Junkyo)

Both involve standards.

遵守 is 'obeying' a rule; 準拠 is 'basing' something on a standard or model.

基準を遵守する (Obey) vs 基準に準拠する (Based on)

遵守 vs 適応 (Tekiou)

Both involve adjusting to rules.

遵守 is following them strictly; 適応 is 'adapting' to them or fitting into a new environment.

規則に遵守する (Wrong particle) vs 規則を遵守する

Sentence Patterns

[Rule]を遵守しましょう。

交通規則を遵守しましょう。

[Rule]を遵守しなければなりません。

就業規則を遵守しなければなりません。

[Noun]の遵守を徹底する。

法令の遵守を徹底する。

[Adverb]に[Rule]を遵守する。

厳格に契約を遵守する。

[Rule]の遵守は[Duty]の基本である。

法令遵守は社会的責任の基本である。

[Rule]を遵守しつつ、[Action]する。

規定を遵守しつつ、業務を遂行する。

[Rule]の不遵守が[Consequence]を招く。

倫理規定の不遵守が信頼失墜を招く。

[Rule]の遵守状況を監視する。

環境規制の遵守状況を監視する。

Word Family

Nouns

遵守 (Junshu - compliance)

不遵守 (Fujunshu - non-compliance)

遵守事項 (Junshu jikou - matters to be observed)

遵守義務 (Junshu gimu - obligation to comply)

Verbs

遵守する (Junshu suru - to comply/observe)

遵守させる (Junshu saseru - to make someone comply)

遵守し続ける (Junshu shitsuzukeru - to continue to comply)

Adjectives

遵守的な (Junshuteki na - compliant/observant)

法律 (Houritsu - law)

規則 (Kisoku - rule)

契約 (Keiyaku - contract)

倫理 (Rinri - ethics)

規約 (Kiyaku - agreement)

How to Use It

frequency

High in news, business, and legal contexts; low in daily casual conversation.

Common Mistakes

規則に遵守する → 規則を遵守する
遵守 is a transitive verb and requires the particle を, not に.
友達の約束を遵守する → 友達の約束を守る
遵守 is too formal for personal promises. Use 守る instead.
上司を遵守する → 上司に従う
You cannot 'comply' with a person. You 'obey' (従う) a person and 'comply' (遵守) with a rule.
時間を遵守する → 時間を厳守する
While 'junshu' is understandable, 'genshu' is the standard term for being strict with time.
遵守う (Junshuu) → 遵守 (Junshu)
The word ends in a short 'u' sound, not a long 'uu'.

Tips

Professional Tone

Always use 遵守 in your self-introductions for jobs if you want to emphasize that you are a person who follows company policies faithfully.

Transitive Verb

Remember: [Object] を遵守する. Unlike '従う' which uses 'に', 遵守 directly acts upon the rule.

The Walking Radical

The kanji 遵 has the 'walking' radical (辶). Think of it as 'walking the path of the law' to remember the meaning.

Compliance Culture

Learn the word '法令遵守' (Hourei Junshu) as a single block. It is the Japanese equivalent of 'Corporate Compliance'.

News Keywords

When you hear 'Junshu' on the news, the story is likely about a legal issue, a safety violation, or a new government policy.

Emphasis

Add '厳格に' (genkaku ni) before '遵守する' to show that you are taking a rule 100% seriously.

Legal Documents

If you are drafting a contract or agreement in Japanese, 遵守 is the standard term for the 'Compliance' section.

Social Harmony

Understand that 遵守 is not just about avoiding punishment; it's about maintaining 'Wa' (harmony) in Japanese society.

Don't confuse with 尊敬

Don't confuse 'Junshu' with 'Sonkei' (respect). While related in spirit, they are used in completely different grammatical ways.

June Shoes

Remember 'June Shoes' to get the pronunciation 'Jun-shu' right every time.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'JUNE' (Jun) and 'SHOE' (Shu). Imagine you must wear your SHOES in JUNE to follow the school rules. JUNE-SHOE = JUN-SHU = 遵守.

Visual Association

Visualize a person walking exactly on a painted white line (遵) while holding a shield to protect (守) that line. This is the essence of 遵守.

Word Web

Law Rule Compliance Strict Professional Contract Ethics Safety

Challenge

Try to find the word 遵守 in the 'Terms of Service' of a Japanese website. Take a screenshot and highlight how many times it appears in relation to 'rules' or 'privacy'.

Word Origin

The word 遵守 comes from Classical Chinese. The first character 遵 (Jun) originally meant 'to follow a path' or 'to walk along a road,' which evolved to mean following a teaching or a law. The second character 守 (Shu) means 'to guard,' 'to protect,' or 'to keep.'

Original meaning: To protect and follow the path of the law.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

Be careful not to sound too robotic. While 遵守 is important, emphasizing it too much in a creative or social setting can make you seem inflexible (katai).

In English, 'compliance' can sometimes sound cold or bureaucratic. In Japanese, 遵守 sounds honorable and professional, suggesting a person of high character.

The 'Compliance Manual' found in every major Japanese corporation (e.g., Toyota, Sony). Japanese Traffic Safety Campaigns often feature the phrase '交通ルールの遵守'. Legal dramas like 'Hero' often feature protagonists fighting for the 遵守 of the spirit of the law.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Legal Documents

本契約を遵守する
法令遵守の義務
不遵守による解除
規定の遵守

Corporate Environment

コンプライアンスの遵守
就業規則を遵守する
倫理規定の遵守
社内ルールの遵守

Traffic and Safety

交通ルールを遵守する
安全基準の遵守
速度制限を遵守する
標識の遵守

Sports and Games

競技ルールの遵守
フェアプレーの遵守
規定を遵守する
審判の指示を遵守する

Research and Academia

研究倫理を遵守する
ガイドラインの遵守
著作権の遵守
実験手順の遵守

Conversation Starters

"「日本の会社では、法令遵守（コンプライアンス）が非常に厳しくなっていますね。」 (In Japanese companies, legal compliance has become very strict, hasn't it?)"

"「新しい交通ルールを遵守するために、何に気をつければいいですか？」 (What should I be careful about to comply with the new traffic rules?)"

"「契約書の内容を遵守することは、ビジネスの基本だと思います。」 (I think complying with the contents of a contract is the basis of business.)"

"「学校の規則を遵守することについて、どう思いますか？」 (What do you think about complying with school rules?)"

"「このプロジェクトでは、どの安全基準を遵守する必要がありますか？」 (Which safety standards do we need to comply with in this project?)"

Journal Prompts

あなたが最近、厳格に遵守したルールは何ですか？なぜそれを守ることが重要でしたか？ (What rule did you strictly comply with recently? Why was it important to follow it?)

「自由」と「ルールの遵守」のバランスについて、あなたの考えを書いてください。 (Write your thoughts on the balance between 'freedom' and 'compliance with rules'.)

仕事や学校で、ルールの遵守が難しいと感じる時はありますか？ (Are there times when you find it difficult to comply with rules at work or school?)

社会全体の秩序を保つために、法令遵守はどの程度重要だと思いますか？ (How important do you think legal compliance is for maintaining social order?)

もし誰もルールを遵守しなかったら、世界はどうなると思いますか？ (What do you think the world would be like if nobody complied with the rules?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Use 遵守 in formal situations like writing a business email, a legal document, or a professional report. Use 守る for everyday promises, games, and casual conversation. If the rule is a 'Law' or 'Regulation,' 遵守 is the better choice.

There is no difference in meaning or reading (both are 'junshu'). 遵守 is the traditional and legal spelling. 順守 was created to use a simpler kanji for general media. In professional writing, 遵守 is usually preferred.

遵守 takes the particle を (o) because it is a transitive verb. You '遵守' the rule. For example: '法律を遵守する.' Do not use 'に' like you would with '従う'.

No, that would sound very strange and overly formal. For personal promises, always use '約束を守る' (yakusoku o mamoru).

Yes, it frequently appears in the JLPT N2 and N1 levels, particularly in reading passages about society, business, or law.

The formal term is '不遵守' (fujunshu). You can also say '遵守していない' (junshu shite inai) for 'not complying.'

The most common are '厳格に' (strictly), '忠実に' (faithfully), and '徹底的に' (thoroughly).

While understandable, the standard phrase is '締切厳守' (shimekiri genshu). 遵守 is usually for larger rules, while 厳守 is for specific constraints like time.

Yes, it can be used for observing religious doctrines or commandments in a formal context, though '信奉' or '守る' are also common.

Yes, '競技ルールの遵守' (compliance with competition rules) is a very common phrase in official sports documents and ceremonies.

Test Yourself 191 questions

writing

Write a formal sentence saying: 'Please comply with the law.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Uses the formal word and polite request form.