Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strong" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strong", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
強固
きょうこ (kyouko)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
強靭
きょうじん (kyōjin)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "strong" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 強固 and 強靭.
In Japanese, 強固 (きょうこ (kyouko)) is typically associated with "strong, firm, solid, robust" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to describe physical structures, systems, or relationships that are durable, resistant, and difficult to break. Emphasizes stability and robustness..
On the other hand, 強靭 (きょうじん (kyōjin)) maps to "strong, robust, resilient, tough" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes something physically or mentally strong, durable, and resilient to external forces or difficulties. 物理的、精神的に強く、困難や外部からの力に耐えうるしなやかで丈夫なさまを表します。. A literal translation of "strong" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "強固"
その建物は地震にも耐えられる強固な構造をしている。
That building has a strong structure that can withstand earthquakes.
Bilingual Context for "強靭"
彼の精神は、いかなる困難にも屈しない強靭さを持っている。
His spirit possesses a resilience that will not yield to any difficulty.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その建物は地震にも耐えられる ＿＿＿ な構造をしている。" (Meaning: "That building has a strong structure that can withstand earthquakes.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "強固" fits here because it means "strong, firm, solid, robust" in the context of: "That building has a strong structure that can withstand earthquakes.". "強靭" represents "strong, robust, resilient, tough".