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
強い
つよい (tsuyoi)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "strong" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 丈夫 and 強い.
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, 強い (つよい (tsuyoi)) maps to "strong, powerful, intense" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents い-形容詞. 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 "強い"
今日は風がとても強いです。
The wind is very strong today.
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.". "強い" represents "strong, powerful, intense".