Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strong" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strong", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
丈夫
じょうぶ (jōbu)
N5 / 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 丈夫 and 堅牢.
In Japanese, 丈夫 (じょうぶ (jōbu)) is typically associated with "strong, durable, healthy" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents A na-adjective used to describe objects that are sturdy and durable, or people who are healthy and robust. It implies resistance to damage or illness..
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 "丈夫"
この椅子はとても丈夫だ。
This chair is very sturdy.
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: "この椅子はとても ＿＿＿ だ。" (Meaning: "This chair is very sturdy.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "丈夫" fits here because it means "strong, durable, healthy" in the context of: "This chair is very sturdy.". "堅牢" represents "strong; sturdy; robust; durable".