Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "丈夫", "気概", "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
気概
きがい (kigai)
N2 / 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", "気概", "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..
- 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..
- 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 "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.
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.".