Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strong" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strong", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
強烈
きょうれつ (kyōretsu)
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 強烈 and 強靭.
In Japanese, 強烈 (きょうれつ (kyōretsu)) is typically associated with "strong, intense, fierce" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to something very powerful, impactful, or severe, often in a sensory.
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 "強烈"
彼は強烈な個性を持っている。
He has a strong personality.
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: "彼は ＿＿＿ な個性を持っている。" (Meaning: "He has a strong personality.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "強烈" fits here because it means "strong, intense, fierce" in the context of: "He has a strong personality.". "強靭" represents "strong, robust, resilient, tough".