Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strong" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strong", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
丈夫な
じょうぶな (joubuna)
N4 / 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 丈夫な and 堅牢.
In Japanese, 丈夫な (じょうぶな (joubuna)) is typically associated with "strong, durable, healthy" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A な-adjective meaning strong, robust, or durable for objects.
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 "丈夫な"
このかばんは丈夫なので、長く使えます。
This bag is durable, so I can use it for a long time.
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: "このかばんは ＿＿＿ ので、長く使えます。" (Meaning: "This bag is durable, so I can use it for a long time.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "丈夫な" fits here because it means "strong, durable, healthy" in the context of: "This bag is durable, so I can use it for a long time.". "堅牢" represents "strong; sturdy; robust; durable".