Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "厳しい", "厳重", "厳格", "厳守"
All represent the core concept "strict", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
厳しい
きびしい (kibishii)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
厳重
げんじゅう (genjū)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
厳格
げんかく (genkaku)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
厳守
げんしゅ (genshu)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "strict" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "厳しい", "厳重", "厳格", "厳守" based on context.
- 厳しい (きびしい (kibishii) - Level: N4): Maps to "strict; severe; harsh" and is used when An い-adjective describing strictness in rules, people.
- 厳重 (げんじゅう (genjū) - Level: N2): Maps to "strict; severe; rigorous; stringent; tight (security)" and is used when Emphasizes thoroughness and strictness, often concerning security measures, warnings, or precautions to prevent negative outcomes. Implies a high level of caution and control..
- 厳格 (げんかく (genkaku) - Level: N2): Maps to "strict, severe, rigid, rigorous" and is used when Often used to describe rules, standards, or people's attitudes/personalities that are very firm and allow no deviation. 規則や態度が非常に厳しく、少しの違反も許さない様子を表す。.
- 厳守 (げんしゅ (genshu) - Level: N2): Maps to "strict observance; strict adherence; strict compliance" and is used when Often used with rules, deadlines, or promises to emphasize the importance of following them without fail. Usually precedes する.
Context for "厳しい"
私の先生はとても厳しいです。
My teacher is very strict.
Context for "厳重"
個人情報は厳重に管理されているため、ご安心ください。
Personal information is managed under strict security, so please be assured.
Context for "厳格"
彼の先生は時間にとても厳格だ。
His teacher is very strict about time.
Context for "厳守"
納期を厳守してください。
Please strictly observe the deadline.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私の先生はとても ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "My teacher is very strict.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "厳しい" is correct here because it represents "strict; severe; harsh" in the context: "My teacher is very strict.".