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How to say "Strong" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "strong", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

たくましい

たくましい (takumashii)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

堅牢

けんろう (kenrou)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "strong" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between たくましい and 堅牢. In Japanese, たくましい (たくましい (takumashii)) is typically associated with "strong, robust, tough (physically/mentally), sturdy" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a person or organism that is strong, resilient, and vigorous, both physically and mentally. Often implies an ability to overcome hardships.. On the other hand, 堅牢 (けんろう (kenrou)) maps to "strong; sturdy; robust; durable" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes something physically very strong, resistant to damage, and built to last for a long time. Often used for structures, materials, or systems.. A literal translation of "strong" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "たくましい"
彼は精神的にとてもたくましい人だ。
He is a very mentally tough person.
Bilingual Context for "堅牢"
この金庫は非常に堅牢で、簡単に開けられない。
This safe is extremely sturdy and cannot be easily opened.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "彼は精神的にとても ___ 人だ。" (Meaning: "He is a very mentally tough person.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "たくましい" fits here because it means "strong, robust, tough (physically/mentally), sturdy" in the context of: "He is a very mentally tough person.". "堅牢" represents "strong; sturdy; robust; durable".