Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "丈夫", "強い", "強烈", "たくましい"
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
強烈
きょうれつ (kyōretsu)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
たくましい
たくましい (takumashii)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "strong" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "丈夫", "強い", "強烈", "たくましい" 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.
- 強烈 (きょうれつ (kyōretsu) - Level: N2): Maps to "strong, intense, fierce" and is used when Refers to something very powerful, impactful, or severe, often in a sensory.
- たくましい (たくましい (takumashii) - Level: N2): Maps to "strong, robust, tough (physically/mentally), sturdy" and is used when Describes a person or organism that is strong, resilient, and vigorous, both physically and mentally. Often implies an ability to overcome hardships..
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 "強烈"
彼は強烈な個性を持っている。
He has a strong personality.
Context for "たくましい"
彼は精神的にとてもたくましい人だ。
He is a very mentally tough person.
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.".