Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strong" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strong", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
長所
ちょうしょ (chousho)
N3 / 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 長所 and 強靭.
In Japanese, 長所 (ちょうしょ (chousho)) is typically associated with "strong point, merit, advantage, asset" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to describe a positive aspect or strength in a person, thing, or plan. Often contrasted with 欠点.
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 "長所"
彼女の長所は、どんな時も前向きなところです。
Her strong point is that she's always positive.
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: "彼女の ＿＿＿ は、どんな時も前向きなところです。" (Meaning: "Her strong point is that she's always positive.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "長所" fits here because it means "strong point, merit, advantage, asset" in the context of: "Her strong point is that she's always positive.". "強靭" represents "strong, robust, resilient, tough".