Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strong" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strong", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
強い
つよい (tsuyoi)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
強烈
きょうれつ (kyōretsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "strong" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 強い and 強烈.
In Japanese, 強い (つよい (tsuyoi)) is typically associated with "strong, powerful, intense" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents い-形容詞.
On the other hand, 強烈 (きょうれつ (kyōretsu)) maps to "strong, intense, fierce" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to something very powerful, impactful, or severe, often in a sensory. A literal translation of "strong" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "強い"
今日は風がとても強いです。
The wind is very strong today.
Bilingual Context for "強烈"
彼は強烈な個性を持っている。
He has a strong personality.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今日は風がとても ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "The wind is very strong today.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "強い" fits here because it means "strong, powerful, intense" in the context of: "The wind is very strong today.". "強烈" represents "strong, intense, fierce".