Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "丈夫", "強固", "強烈", "強靭"
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
強固
きょうこ (kyouko)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
強烈
きょうれつ (kyōretsu)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
強靭
きょうじん (kyōjin)
N1 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "strong" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "丈夫", "強固", "強烈", "強靭" 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..
- 強固 (きょうこ (kyouko) - Level: N2): Maps to "strong, firm, solid, robust" and is used when Used to describe physical structures, systems, or relationships that are durable, resistant, and difficult to break. Emphasizes stability and robustness..
- 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.
- 強靭 (きょうじん (kyōjin) - Level: N1): Maps to "strong, robust, resilient, tough" and is used when 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。.
Context for "丈夫"
この椅子はとても丈夫だ。
This chair is very sturdy.
Context for "強固"
その建物は地震にも耐えられる強固な構造をしている。
That building has a strong structure that can withstand earthquakes.
Context for "強烈"
彼は強烈な個性を持っている。
He has a strong personality.
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.
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.".