Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "強固", "強烈", "たくましい", "堅牢"
All represent the core concept "strong", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
強固
きょうこ (kyouko)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
強烈
きょうれつ (kyōretsu)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
たくましい
たくましい (takumashii)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
堅牢
けんろう (kenrou)
N1 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "strong" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "強固", "強烈", "たくましい", "堅牢" based on context.
- 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..
- 堅牢 (けんろう (kenrou) - Level: N1): Maps to "strong; sturdy; robust; durable" and is used when Describes something physically very strong, resistant to damage, and built to last for a long time. Often used for structures, materials, or systems..
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.
Context for "堅牢"
この金庫は非常に堅牢で、簡単に開けられない。
This safe is extremely sturdy and cannot be easily opened.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その建物は地震にも耐えられる ＿＿＿ な構造をしている。" (Meaning: "That building has a strong structure that can withstand earthquakes.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "強固" is correct here because it represents "strong, firm, solid, robust" in the context: "That building has a strong structure that can withstand earthquakes.".