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Quadruple VS

Synonym Boundary: "丈夫", "長所", "強固", "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

長所

ちょうしょ (chousho)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option C

強固

きょうこ (kyouko)
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", "長所", "強固", "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..
  • 長所 (ちょうしょ (chousho) - Level: N3): Maps to "strong point, merit, advantage, asset" and is used when Used to describe a positive aspect or strength in a person, thing, or plan. Often contrasted with 欠点.
  • 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..
  • 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..
Mixing these up can easily lead to unnatural translations. Refer to the bilingual context cards below to master the boundaries!
Context for "丈夫"
この椅子はとても丈夫だ。
This chair is very sturdy.
Context for "長所"
彼女の長所は、どんな時も前向きなところです。
Her strong point is that she's always positive.
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 "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.".

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