Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "強い", "強固", "強烈", "たくましい"
All represent the core concept "strong", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
強い
つよい (tsuyoi)
N4 / 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
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 "強い", "強固", "強烈", "たくましい" based on context.
- 強い (つよい (tsuyoi) - Level: N4): Maps to "strong, powerful, intense" and is used when い-形容詞.
- 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.
- 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 "強い"
今日は風がとても強いです。
The wind is very strong today.
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 "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: "今日は風がとても ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "The wind is very strong today.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "強い" is correct here because it represents "strong, powerful, intense" in the context: "The wind is very strong today.".