Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "丈夫", "強い", "丈夫な", "気概"
All represent the core concept "strong", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
丈夫
じょうぶ (jōbu)
N5 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
強い
つよい (tsuyoi)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
丈夫な
じょうぶな (joubuna)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
気概
きがい (kigai)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "strong" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "丈夫", "強い", "丈夫な", "気概" based on context.
- 丈夫 (じょうぶ (jōbu) - Level: N5): Maps to "strong, durable, healthy" and is used when A na-adjective used to describe objects that are sturdy and durable, or people who are healthy and robust. It implies resistance to damage or illness..
- 強い (つよい (tsuyoi) - Level: N4): Maps to "strong, powerful, intense" and is used when い-形容詞.
- 丈夫な (じょうぶな (joubuna) - Level: N4): Maps to "strong, durable, healthy" and is used when A な-adjective meaning strong, robust, or durable for objects.
- 気概 (きがい (kigai) - Level: N2): Maps to "strong spirit, backbone, determination, guts" and is used when Implies a strong, positive will, determination, or resolve to face challenges, take on difficult tasks, or not give up. Often used to praise someone's character..
Context for "丈夫"
この椅子はとても丈夫だ。
This chair is very sturdy.
Context for "強い"
今日は風がとても強いです。
The wind is very strong today.
Context for "丈夫な"
このかばんは丈夫なので、長く使えます。
This bag is durable, so I can use it for a long time.
Context for "気概"
彼は困難にも屈しない気概を持っている。
He has the determination not to yield to difficulties.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この椅子はとても ＿＿＿ だ。" (Meaning: "This chair is very sturdy.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "丈夫" is correct here because it represents "strong, durable, healthy" in the context: "This chair is very sturdy.".