丈夫 in 30 Seconds
- Means 'durable' or 'sturdy' when applied to objects like bags, shoes, or buildings.
- Means 'healthy' or 'robust' when applied to people, especially children or the elderly.
- It is a na-adjective, meaning you must add 'な' (na) before a noun (e.g., 丈夫な靴).
- Do not confuse it with 大丈夫 (daijoubu), which means 'okay' or 'no problem.'
The Japanese word 丈夫 (joubu) is a versatile and essential na-adjective that primarily translates to 'strong,' 'durable,' 'solid,' or 'healthy.' Understanding its meaning requires looking at its application in two main contexts: the physical health of living beings and the structural integrity or durability of inanimate objects. When applied to people or animals, it describes a constitution that is robust, resilient, and not easily susceptible to illness or injury. For example, a child who rarely catches a cold is described as having a '丈夫な体' (joubu na karada - a healthy/strong body). When applied to objects, it describes things that are well-made, tough, and capable of withstanding wear and tear over time. A thick canvas bag, a sturdy wooden table, or a well-constructed building can all be described as '丈夫'.
このカバンはとても丈夫です。
To truly grasp the depth of this word, we must explore its etymology. The kanji 丈 (jou) originally referred to a unit of measurement (about 3 meters) but evolved to imply something of significant stature or measure. The kanji 夫 (bu/fu) means 'man' or 'husband.' In ancient Chinese and early Japanese contexts, '丈夫' (joufu/joubu) referred to a fine, respectable gentleman or a man of excellent health and strong build. Over centuries, the meaning shifted from describing a 'strong man' to describing the abstract quality of 'strength' and 'durability' itself, expanding its use to objects and general health.
- Physical Health
- Used to describe a body or constitution that resists illness. Often used for children growing up or elderly people maintaining their vitality.
祖父は80歳ですが、まだ体が丈夫です。
It is important to distinguish '丈夫' from other words meaning 'strong,' such as '強い' (tsuyoi). While '強い' can refer to physical force, mental fortitude, or power (like a strong wind or a strong fighter), '丈夫' specifically refers to resilience, durability, and the ability to endure without breaking or falling ill. You would not use '丈夫' to describe someone who can lift heavy weights unless you are emphasizing that their body won't break under the strain. Instead, it is the quiet, enduring strength of a well-made tool or a healthy immune system.
- Material Durability
- Used for products, materials, and structures that do not easily break, tear, or wear out. Highly sought after in consumer goods.
この布は厚くて丈夫だ。
In everyday conversation, you will frequently hear this word when shopping for clothes, furniture, or bags. Shop assistants will often highlight the '丈夫さ' (joubusa - durability) of their products as a selling point. Similarly, in the context of family and parenting, wishing for a child to grow up '丈夫に' (joubu ni - healthily/strongly) is a standard cultural expression, deeply embedded in traditions like Shichi-Go-San, where parents pray for their children's continued health and robust growth.
- Abstract Usage
- Occasionally used to describe abstract concepts like a 'solid' stomach (胃が丈夫) meaning one can eat anything without getting an upset stomach.
私は胃が丈夫なので、辛いものを食べても平気です。
Furthermore, the concept of '丈夫' reflects a cultural appreciation for longevity and reliability. In a society that values craftsmanship (monozukuri), creating something that is '丈夫' is considered a hallmark of quality. Whether it is a pair of denim jeans woven on a vintage loom or a traditional wooden house built to withstand earthquakes, the attribute of being '丈夫' is highly prized. This extends to human relationships and communities, though less directly, as the foundational idea of resilience permeates Japanese aesthetics and practical values. By mastering the use of '丈夫', learners gain access to a fundamental concept that bridges the gap between physical health and material quality, enriching their ability to describe the world around them accurately and naturally.
子供たちには丈夫に育ってほしい。
Using 丈夫 correctly in Japanese requires a solid understanding of its grammatical function as a na-adjective (形容動詞 - keiyoudoushi). Unlike i-adjectives, which conjugate internally, na-adjectives behave more like nouns and require the copula (だ/です) or specific particles to connect to other words in a sentence. The most fundamental rule to remember is that when you want to use '丈夫' to directly modify a noun, you must place the syllable 'な' (na) between the adjective and the noun. This is the defining characteristic of na-adjectives and is crucial for natural-sounding Japanese. For instance, if you want to say 'durable shoes,' you cannot say '丈夫靴' (joubu kutsu); you must say '丈夫な靴' (joubu na kutsu). This 'な' acts as a bridge, linking the descriptive quality of durability to the object itself.
- Modifying Nouns (Attributive Form)
- Always use '丈夫な' (joubu na) before a noun. Example: 丈夫な家 (joubu na ie - a sturdy house).
これはとても丈夫な箱です。
When '丈夫' is used at the end of a sentence to make a statement about the subject (predicative use), it takes the standard copula endings. In polite speech (desu/masu form), you will say '丈夫です' (joubu desu - it is durable/healthy). In casual speech, this becomes '丈夫だ' (joubu da). To express the negative, meaning 'not durable' or 'not healthy,' you conjugate the copula, not the word itself. Therefore, polite negative becomes '丈夫ではありません' (joubu dewa arimasen) or the more conversational '丈夫じゃないです' (joubu ja nai desu). Casual negative is simply '丈夫ではない' (joubu dewa nai) or '丈夫じゃない' (joubu ja nai). Past tense follows the same logic: '丈夫でした' (joubu deshita - it was durable) or '丈夫だった' (joubu datta).
- Adverbial Form
- Use '丈夫に' (joubu ni) to modify verbs. This describes the manner in which an action results in durability or health.
この椅子は丈夫に作られている。
Another common grammatical structure involves turning the adjective into a noun to express the degree or concept of the quality. By dropping the 'な' and adding 'さ' (sa), you create the noun '丈夫さ' (joubusa), which translates to 'durability,' 'sturdiness,' or 'robustness.' This is highly useful when you want to talk about the quality itself as the subject or object of a sentence. For example, 'この車の丈夫さが好きです' (Kono kuruma no joubusa ga suki desu - I like the durability of this car). You can also use '丈夫そう' (joubu sou) to indicate that something 'looks durable' or 'appears healthy' based on visual evidence. If you see a thick, heavy-duty backpack, you might remark, '丈夫そうなリュックですね' (Joubu sou na ryukku desu ne - That looks like a durable backpack).
- Expressing Change
- Combine '丈夫に' with the verb 'なる' (naru - to become) to show improvement in health or structural integrity.
運動をして、体が丈夫になった。
It is also essential to know which verbs frequently collocate with '丈夫'. As mentioned, '育つ' (sodatsu - to grow up) is heavily paired with '丈夫に' when talking about children or plants. '作る' (tsukuru - to make) is paired with it for manufacturing. When asking about someone's health, especially an older person, you might hear 'お丈夫ですか' (O-joubu desu ka), where the honorific prefix 'お' (o) is added to show respect. This is a polite way to ask 'Are you in good health?' However, this usage is somewhat traditional and is more commonly directed at seniors rather than young people. Understanding these grammatical nuances and common pairings will allow you to use '丈夫' fluidly and accurately in a wide variety of everyday situations, from shopping for reliable goods to discussing personal health and well-being.
この素材は丈夫で長持ちします。
彼は昔から体が丈夫だ。
The word 丈夫 is ubiquitous in Japanese daily life, appearing in a multitude of contexts ranging from casual family conversations to commercial marketing and medical discussions. Because it bridges the concepts of physical health and material durability, learners will encounter it in surprisingly diverse environments. One of the most common places you will hear '丈夫' is in retail environments, particularly when shopping for everyday goods. Whether you are in a clothing store, a furniture shop, or a home goods center, sales clerks frequently use this word to assure customers of a product's quality. A salesperson might demonstrate the thickness of a fabric or the solid construction of a suitcase and proudly state that it is '丈夫'. It is a key selling point in Japanese consumer culture, which places a high premium on longevity and value for money.
- Retail and Shopping
- Used extensively in marketing and sales to describe products that are built to last, such as bags, shoes, furniture, and clothing.
この靴はとても丈夫なので、山登りに最適です。
Another primary domain for '丈夫' is in conversations about health, particularly concerning children and the elderly. In Japan, the health and robust growth of children is a frequent topic of discussion among parents, grandparents, and teachers. You will often hear parents expressing their ultimate wish for their children simply to be '丈夫'—meaning they don't necessarily need to be the smartest or the fastest, but just healthy and resilient against sickness. This sentiment is especially prominent during milestones like birthdays or the Shichi-Go-San festival. Similarly, when discussing the elderly, '丈夫' is used as a compliment or a statement of relief regarding their continued vitality. Saying an 80-year-old is '丈夫' implies they are active, independent, and free from debilitating illnesses.
- Parenting and Family
- A common expression of hope for children's development, emphasizing a strong immune system and healthy physical growth.
何よりも、子供が丈夫に育ってくれるのが一番の願いです。
You will also encounter '丈夫' in the context of construction, housing, and engineering. Japan is a country prone to natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and typhoons. Therefore, the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure is a matter of paramount importance. Real estate agents, architects, and construction workers frequently use '丈夫' to describe houses that are earthquake-resistant (耐震 - taishin) or built with high-quality, solid materials. A house described as '丈夫な家' provides a sense of safety and security to prospective buyers. In this context, the word carries a weight of reliability and protection against the elements.
- Construction and Real Estate
- Describes buildings, walls, and infrastructure that are structurally sound and capable of withstanding natural disasters.
地震が多いので、丈夫な家を建てたいです。
Beyond these specific areas, '丈夫' appears in everyday idioms and casual observations. For example, someone who never gets food poisoning or indigestion might boast about having a '丈夫な胃腸' (joubu na ichou - a strong stomach and intestines). You might also hear it in the negative form when someone is apologizing for breaking something, saying 'あまり丈夫じゃなかったみたい' (amari joubu ja nakatta mitai - it seems it wasn't very durable). Because the concept of durability and health is so universally relevant, '丈夫' is a word that transcends formal and informal boundaries, making it an indispensable part of a learner's vocabulary. Whether you are reading a product review online, chatting with a neighbor about their garden, or listening to a news report about new building materials, '丈夫' is a word you will hear and use constantly.
この傘は骨が丈夫で、強風でも折れません。
祖母は足腰が丈夫で、毎日散歩をしています。
While 丈夫 is a common and incredibly useful word, it is also the source of several frequent mistakes for Japanese learners. The most prominent and confusing error stems from its visual and phonetic similarity to the word '大丈夫' (daijoubu). Because '大丈夫' literally contains the kanji for '丈夫', learners often assume they can be used interchangeably or that '丈夫' is just a shortened, casual version of '大丈夫'. This is entirely incorrect. '大丈夫' means 'okay,' 'fine,' 'safe,' or 'no problem,' and is used to reassure someone or confirm that a situation is acceptable. '丈夫', on the other hand, strictly refers to physical health, sturdiness, or durability. If you drop your phone and someone asks if it's broken, saying '丈夫です' means 'The phone is durable (so it didn't break),' whereas saying '大丈夫です' means 'It is fine / No problem.' Mixing these up can lead to highly unnatural or confusing sentences.
- Confusing 丈夫 with 大丈夫
- Never use 丈夫 to mean 'I am okay' or 'No thank you.' Only use it to describe physical sturdiness or health.
❌ 転んだけど、丈夫です。
⭕ 転んだけど、大丈夫です。
Another common mistake involves confusing '丈夫' with '強い' (tsuyoi). Both words can be translated as 'strong' in English, which creates a trap for native English speakers. '強い' is a broad term that can refer to physical power (a strong boxer), force (a strong wind), mental fortitude (a strong will), or intensity (strong coffee). '丈夫' is much narrower. It refers specifically to resilience against breaking, tearing, or falling ill. You cannot use '丈夫' to describe someone who can lift 100 kilograms; that person is '力が強い' (chikara ga tsuyoi). You also cannot use '丈夫' to describe a strong flavor or a strong wind. If you say '丈夫な風' (joubu na kaze), it makes absolutely no sense in Japanese. '丈夫' is passive strength—the ability to endure—while '強い' can be active, aggressive strength.
- Misusing 丈夫 for Mental Strength
- Do not use 丈夫 to describe someone's emotional resilience or willpower. Use 精神的に強い (seishinteki ni tsuyoi) instead.
❌ 彼女は心が丈夫だ。
⭕ 彼女は心が強い。
Grammatically, learners often forget that '丈夫' is a na-adjective and mistakenly treat it as a noun or an i-adjective. A classic error is omitting the 'な' (na) when modifying a noun. Saying '丈夫カバン' (joubu kaban) instead of '丈夫なカバン' (joubu na kaban) sounds broken and immediately marks the speaker as a beginner. Similarly, learners sometimes try to conjugate it like an i-adjective, creating non-existent words like '丈夫くない' (joubukunai) instead of the correct '丈夫じゃない' (joubu ja nai) or '丈夫ではない' (joubu dewa nai). Remembering its word class is essential for accurate conjugation and sentence structure.
- Applying 丈夫 to Temporary Health
- 丈夫 describes a long-term constitution, not recovery from a temporary illness like a cold. Use 元気 (genki) or 治る (naoru) for temporary recovery.
❌ 風邪が治って、丈夫になりました。
⭕ 風邪が治って、元気になりました。
Finally, a subtle but important nuance is the difference between '丈夫' and '健康' (kenkou). While both relate to health, '健康' is a noun (and sometimes a na-adjective) that refers to the medical or objective state of health (e.g., 健康診断 - kenkou shindan - health checkup). '丈夫' is more colloquial and focuses on the *robustness* of the body. You would say '健康に良い' (kenkou ni yoi - good for your health), not '丈夫に良い' (joubu ni yoi). '丈夫' is a description of the body's inherent toughness, whereas '健康' is the overall state of well-being. By paying attention to these distinctions—especially the differences from 大丈夫, 強い, and 健康—learners can avoid the most common pitfalls and use '丈夫' with the precision of a native speaker.
❌ このパソコンは丈夫に動く。
⭕ このパソコンは問題なく動く。
❌ 彼は力が丈夫だ。
⭕ 彼は力が強い。
To fully master 丈夫, it is highly beneficial to understand its synonyms and related terms. The Japanese language is rich in vocabulary describing strength, health, and durability, and choosing the right word depends heavily on the specific nuance and context you wish to convey. One of the closest synonyms to '丈夫' when describing physical objects is '頑丈' (ganjou). Both words translate to 'sturdy' or 'durable,' but '頑丈' carries a heavier, more industrial connotation. While a canvas tote bag might be '丈夫', a steel safe or a reinforced concrete wall is '頑丈'. '頑丈' implies a level of solidness that is difficult to break even with significant force. It is rarely used for human health, making it strictly an object-oriented synonym in most contexts.
- 頑丈 (がんじょう - ganjou)
- Means solid, firm, or heavily built. Used for structures, heavy machinery, or things that look unbreakable.
この金庫はとても頑丈にできている。
When the context shifts to human health, the most common related words are '健康' (kenkou) and '元気' (genki). As discussed in the common mistakes section, '健康' refers to the overall, objective state of health. It is a more formal and medical term. You have a '健康保険' (health insurance), not a '丈夫保険'. '元気', on the other hand, refers to energy, vitality, and immediate well-being. A person can have a '丈夫な体' (a robust constitution that rarely gets sick) but still be feeling '元気がない' (lacking energy) on a particular day because they are tired. Conversely, someone who is generally frail (体が弱い) might be feeling very '元気' (energetic) today. '丈夫' is the baseline hardware; '元気' is the current battery level.
- 健康 (けんこう - kenkou)
- Health as a medical or general state. Often used in compound nouns like health checkups or health foods.
健康のために毎日野菜を食べています。
Another word that frequently overlaps with '丈夫' is '強い' (tsuyoi). As noted earlier, '強い' is a much broader term meaning 'strong' in terms of power, force, or intensity. However, there are specific collocations where they overlap. For example, '風に強い家' (a house strong against the wind) and '丈夫な家' (a sturdy house) convey a very similar practical meaning, though the grammatical focus is different. '強い' often takes the particle 'に' to show what it is strong *against* (e.g., 寒さに強い - strong against the cold), whereas '丈夫' describes the inherent quality of the item itself without necessarily needing an opposing force.
- 堅固 (けんご - kengo)
- Solid, strong, firm. A formal word often used in literature or official documents to describe defenses or structures.
その城は堅固な守りで知られていた。
For learners looking to expand their descriptive vocabulary, 'タフ' (tafu), a loanword from the English 'tough', is also commonly used in modern Japanese. 'タフな人' (a tough person) or 'タフな仕事' (a tough job) carries the nuance of endurance and stamina, similar to '丈夫', but with a slightly more modern, colloquial, or sometimes psychological edge. While '丈夫' is deeply traditional and universally understood across all generations, 'タフ' is often used in business or sports contexts. Understanding this spectrum of words—from the industrial '頑丈' to the medical '健康', the energetic '元気', the powerful '強い', and the modern 'タフ'—allows a learner to pinpoint the exact flavor of 'strength' or 'durability' they wish to express, elevating their Japanese from functional to highly expressive and nuanced.
彼はとてもタフな交渉人だ。
今日はとても元気です！
How Formal Is It?
Difficulty Rating
Grammar to Know
Na-adjective modification (〜な + Noun)
Adverbial use of Na-adjectives (〜に + Verb)
Nominalization of adjectives (〜さ)
Expressing change (〜になる)
Expressing appearance (〜そう)
Examples by Level
このカバンは丈夫です。
This bag is durable.
Basic na-adjective + desu.
その箱は丈夫ですか？
Is that box sturdy?
Question form with ka.
はい、とても丈夫です。
Yes, it is very durable.
Using totemo (very) for emphasis.
いいえ、丈夫じゃありません。
No, it is not durable.
Negative form of na-adjective.
丈夫な靴が欲しいです。
I want durable shoes.
Na-adjective modifying a noun (kutsu).
これは丈夫な机です。
This is a sturdy desk.
Modifying a noun.
私の自転車は丈夫です。
My bicycle is sturdy.
Subject marker wa.
丈夫な傘を買いました。
I bought a durable umbrella.
Past tense verb with modified noun.
彼は体がとても丈夫です。
He has a very healthy/strong body.
Phrase: karada ga joubu (body is strong).
この布は厚くて、丈夫です。
This cloth is thick and durable.
Connecting adjectives with te-form.
子供には丈夫に育ってほしい。
I want my child to grow up healthy.
Adverbial form (joubu ni) + verb (sodatsu).
昔のカメラは重いですが、丈夫です。
Old cameras are heavy, but they are durable.
Contrast using ga (but).
おじいさんは80歳ですが、まだお丈夫です。
My grandfather is 80, but he is still in good health.
Polite prefix 'o' used for someone else's health.
安くて丈夫なカバンを探しています。
I am looking for a cheap and durable bag.
Combining i-adjective (yasukute) and na-adjective (joubu na).
この椅子はあまり丈夫じゃありません。
This chair is not very sturdy.
Amari + negative.
毎日運動しているので、体が丈夫になりました。
Because I exercise every day, my body has become stronger.
joubu ni naru (to become strong).
このメーカーの製品は丈夫なことで有名です。
This manufacturer's products are famous for being durable.
Nominalizing with koto (joubu na koto).
いくら使っても壊れないくらい丈夫です。
It is so durable that it won't break no matter how much you use it.
Expressing extent with kurai.
丈夫さを重視して、このテントを選びました。
I chose this tent placing importance on its durability.
Noun form: joubusa (durability).
彼は胃が丈夫なので、激辛カレーを食べても平気です。
He has a strong stomach, so he is fine even if he eats super spicy curry.
Idiomatic usage: i ga joubu (strong stomach).
長持ちするように、もっと丈夫に作ってください。
Please make it sturdier so that it lasts longer.
Adverbial use modifying tsukuru (to make).
見た目は華奢ですが、意外と丈夫な素材です。
It looks delicate, but it's a surprisingly durable material.
Contrast between appearance and reality.
祖母は足腰が丈夫で、階段も一人で上れます。
My grandmother has strong legs and hips, and can climb stairs by herself.
Specific collocation: ashikoshi ga joubu.
風邪一つひかない丈夫な体に産んでくれた両親に感謝しています。
I am grateful to my parents for giving birth to me with a healthy body that never even catches a cold.
Complex relative clause modifying karada.
この建築物は地震に耐えられるよう、極めて丈夫に設計されています。
This building is designed to be extremely sturdy so it can withstand earthquakes.
Formal adverbial use with kiwamete (extremely).
消費者はデザインだけでなく、製品の丈夫さも求めている。
Consumers demand not only design but also the durability of products.
Using the noun form in a business/analytical context.
どんな過酷な環境でも機能する、丈夫な時計が必要です。
I need a durable watch that functions in any harsh environment.
Modifying a noun within a complex condition.
彼は精神的には脆いところがあるが、肉体的には非常に丈夫だ。
He has some mental fragilities, but physically he is extremely robust.
Contrasting physical and mental states.
この伝統工芸品は、何世代にもわたって使えるほど丈夫に作られている。
This traditional craft is made sturdily enough to be used for generations.
Expressing long-term durability with hodo.
幼い頃は病弱だったが、水泳を始めてから見違えるほど丈夫になった。
I was sickly when I was young, but after starting swimming, I became unrecognizably healthy.
Describing a significant change in health.
そのロープは、大人が3人ぶら下がっても切れないほどの丈夫さを誇る。
That rope boasts enough durability that it won't snap even if three adults hang from it.
Using hokoru (to boast) with the noun form.
丈夫で長持ちする素材を開発することが、我々の現在の課題です。
Developing materials that are durable and long-lasting is our current challenge.
Common collocation: joubu de nagamochi suru.
古民家の梁には、数百年経っても朽ちない丈夫な木材が使われている。
The beams of traditional folk houses use durable timber that does not rot even after hundreds of years.
Advanced descriptive clause modifying mokuzai.
現代の大量消費社会において、丈夫で一生使える道具の価値が見直されている。
In today's mass-consumption society, the value of durable tools that can be used for a lifetime is being reconsidered.
Sociological context using joubu.
彼は一見すると飄々としているが、実は芯が強く、逆境にも耐えうる丈夫な精神の持ち主だ。
At first glance he seems aloof, but he actually has a strong core and possesses a robust spirit capable of withstanding adversity.
Metaphorical use of joubu for spirit (less common, literary).
御高齢にもかかわらず、かくもお丈夫であらせられること、慶賀の至りに存じます。
I am extremely delighted that you remain in such robust health despite your advanced age.
Highly formal/honorific keigo (o-joubu de araserareru).
この特殊合金は、軽量でありながら従来の鋼鉄を凌ぐ丈夫さを備えている。
This special alloy, while lightweight, possesses a durability that surpasses conventional steel.
Technical/industrial context.
幼少期の粗食が、かえって彼の胃腸を丈夫に鍛え上げたのかもしれない。
Perhaps the simple, meager diet of his childhood ironically trained his digestive system to be robust.
Causative nuance with kitaeageru.
見かけの華美さよりも、実用性と丈夫さを重んじるのがそのブランドの哲学だ。
Valuing practicality and durability over superficial splendor is the philosophy of that brand.
Philosophical/branding context.
過酷な自然環境に順応し、独自の進化を遂げた高山植物は驚くほど丈夫である。
Alpine plants, having adapted to harsh natural environments and undergone unique evolution, are surprisingly resilient.
Scientific/botanical context.
「一尺の夫」という語源が示す通り、丈夫という言葉には本来、立派な成人男子という含意があった。
As the etymology 'a man of one shaku' indicates, the word 'joubu' originally carried the implication of a fine adult male.
Etymological and historical discussion.
その橋は、度重なる水害に耐え抜いた丈夫さゆえに、村人たちから半ば神格化されていた。
Because of the sturdiness that allowed it to withstand repeated floods, the bridge was semi-deified by the villagers.
Literary narrative style using yue ni (because of).
使い捨て文化へのアンチテーゼとして、修理を重ねて使い込む「丈夫な日用品」の美学が復権しつつある。
As an antithesis to throwaway culture, the aesthetics of 'durable everyday goods' that are repeatedly repaired and used thoroughly is making a comeback.
Cultural critique and aesthetic philosophy.
彼の文章は、修辞の華やかさには欠けるものの、論理の骨格が極めて丈夫に組み上げられている。
Although his writing lacks rhetorical brilliance, the skeletal structure of his logic is assembled extremely solidly.
Highly abstract/metaphorical use applied to logic/writing.
戦後の物資不足の時代、人々は少しでも丈夫な生地を求めて闇市を奔走したという。
It is said that during the post-war era of material shortages, people ran around black markets seeking even slightly more durable fabrics.
Historical narrative context.
免疫学的な観点から言えば、「丈夫な体」とは無菌状態ではなく、多様な抗原に対する適切な応答能力を指す。
From an immunological perspective, a 'healthy body' does not mean a sterile state, but rather the ability to respond appropriately to diverse antigens.
Academic/medical definition context.
老巧な職人の手によるその家具は、百年先を見据えたかのような途方もない丈夫さを秘めていた。
That furniture, crafted by the hands of a veteran artisan, harbored an extraordinary durability as if looking a hundred years into the future.
Evocative, literary description.
如何に堅牢なシステムを構築しようとも、それを運用する人間の倫理観が丈夫でなければ、砂上の楼閣に過ぎない。
No matter how robust a system is built, if the ethical sense of the humans operating it is not sound, it is nothing more than a house of cards.
Philosophical/ethical debate context.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
Idioms & Expressions
Easily Confused
Sentence Patterns
How to Use It
Carries a very positive nuance of reliability, safety, and peace of mind.
Can be used in both casual and formal situations. The formality changes based on the copula used (だ vs です vs でございます).
Rarely used for mental or emotional strength. Strictly physical.
- Using 丈夫 to mean 'Okay' or 'Fine' (confusing it with 大丈夫).
- Forgetting the 'な' when modifying a noun (saying 丈夫靴 instead of 丈夫な靴).
- Using 丈夫 to describe muscular strength or power (instead of 強い).
- Using 丈夫 to describe weather like strong wind or heavy rain.
- Conjugating it like an i-adjective (saying 丈夫くない instead of 丈夫じゃない).
Tips
Don't forget the 'な'
Because 丈夫 is a na-adjective, the most common mistake is forgetting the 'な' when modifying a noun. Always say 丈夫なカバン, never 丈夫カバン. This small particle is the glue that connects the adjective to the noun.
Not for muscles
Remember that 丈夫 is about endurance, not power. Don't use it to describe a bodybuilder's strength. Use it to describe someone who never catches a cold or a grandfather who can still walk miles every day.
丈夫 vs 大丈夫
Burn this into your memory: 大丈夫 = Okay. 丈夫 = Durable/Healthy. They look similar but are used in completely different situations. Never say 丈夫です to mean 'No thank you' or 'I'm fine.'
Learn the set phrase: 体が丈夫
Instead of just saying 'I am healthy', native speakers often say 体が丈夫です (karada ga joubu desu - my body is strong/healthy). Memorizing this exact phrase will make your Japanese sound much more natural.
Adverbial form: 丈夫に
When you want to say something is 'made durably', use the adverbial form 丈夫に (joubu ni) + verb. 丈夫に作られている (joubu ni tsukurareteiru) is a great phrase to use when praising Japanese craftsmanship.
A parent's wish
If you are talking to Japanese parents, using the phrase 丈夫に育ってほしい (I want them to grow up healthy) shows a deep understanding of Japanese cultural values regarding children. It's a very warm and appreciated sentiment.
丈夫 vs 健康
Use 健康 (kenkou) for medical contexts, like a health checkup or eating healthy food. Use 丈夫 (joubu) for the physical toughness of the body itself. You eat vegetables for 健康, which makes your body 丈夫.
Praising products
When shopping in Japan, if you want to compliment a product, say 丈夫そうですね (It looks durable). Shop staff love hearing this because durability is a major selling point for Japanese goods.
Creating the noun: 丈夫さ
If you need to talk about 'durability' as a concept, just add 'さ' to make 丈夫さ. This is very useful in business contexts or when comparing two items: 丈夫さが違います (The durability is different).
Strong stomach: 胃が丈夫
If you can eat spicy food, greasy food, or cheap street food without getting sick, tell people 胃が丈夫です (i ga joubu desu - my stomach is strong). It's a very common and natural idiomatic expression.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Joe (ジョー) and Boo (ブ) built a very STRONG and DURABLE house together. Joe-Boo = 丈夫 (Strong/Durable).
Word Origin
Cultural Context
Historically, the kanji meant 'strong man,' but in modern Japanese, '丈夫' is completely gender-neutral when applied to health or objects.
When asking about an older person's health, adding the honorific 'お' (o) makes it polite: 'お丈夫ですか' (Are you in good health?). This is respectful but slightly old-fashioned.
Understood universally across Japan. In some dialects, words like 'まめ' (mame) might be used instead of '丈夫' to mean healthy (e.g., まめに暮らす).
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Conversation Starters
"このカバン、すごく丈夫そうですね。どこで買ったんですか？ (This bag looks very durable. Where did you buy it?)"
"お子さん、毎日元気ですね。体が丈夫で何よりです。(Your child is energetic every day. Being healthy is the best thing.)"
"最近運動していますか？体を丈夫にしたいんですよね。(Have you been exercising lately? I want to make my body stronger.)"
"地震が多いから、丈夫な家に住みたいですね。(Since there are many earthquakes, I want to live in a sturdy house.)"
"このスマホケース、落としても全然壊れないくらい丈夫ですよ。(This smartphone case is so durable it doesn't break at all even if you drop it.)"
Journal Prompts
あなたが持っている一番「丈夫な」物は何ですか？それについて書いてください。(What is the most 'durable' thing you own? Write about it.)
子供のころ、体は丈夫でしたか？よく風邪をひきましたか？(When you were a child, was your body healthy? Did you catch colds often?)
「丈夫な家」と「デザインが良い家」、どちらに住みたいですか？理由も書いてください。(Which would you rather live in, a 'sturdy house' or a 'well-designed house'? Write the reason.)
健康で丈夫な体を維持するために、毎日気をつけていることは何ですか？(What do you pay attention to every day to maintain a healthy and robust body?)
日本の製品は「丈夫だ」と言われますが、どう思いますか？(Japanese products are said to be 'durable'. What do you think?)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, you should not use 丈夫 for muscular strength. 丈夫 refers to resilience against breaking or getting sick. If you want to say you are physically strong from lifting weights, use 力が強い (chikara ga tsuyoi) or 筋肉がある (kinniku ga aru).
This is the most common question! 大丈夫 (daijoubu) means 'okay,' 'fine,' or 'no problem.' 丈夫 (joubu) means 'durable' or 'healthy.' If you drop a cup and it doesn't break, the cup is 丈夫. If you drop a cup and someone asks if *you* are hurt, you say 大丈夫 (I am fine).
No, that is incorrect. 丈夫 is only for things that have physical form and can endure wear, tear, or sickness. For natural forces like wind or rain, you must use 強い (tsuyoi). A strong wind is 強い風 (tsuyoi kaze).
丈夫 is a na-adjective. This means when you put it before a noun, you must add 'な' (na). For example, 'durable shoes' is 丈夫な靴 (joubu na kutsu). You conjugate it with だ/です, not by changing the end of the word.
You can turn the na-adjective into a noun by dropping the 'な' and adding 'さ' (sa). So, 'durability' or 'sturdiness' is 丈夫さ (joubusa). For example, 'I like its durability' is その丈夫さが好きです (sono joubusa ga suki desu).
Generally, no. 丈夫 is used for physical health and material durability. If you want to talk about someone being mentally or emotionally strong, you should use 精神的に強い (seishinteki ni tsuyoi) or メンタルが強い (mentaru ga tsuyoi).
丈夫に育つ (joubu ni sodatsu) means 'to grow up healthy.' It is a very common and culturally important phrase used by parents and grandparents expressing their wish that a child grows up without getting sick or injured. It emphasizes resilience.
Both mean sturdy or durable, but 頑丈 (ganjou) is for heavy-duty, industrial, or massive things like a steel safe, a concrete wall, or a heavy desk. 丈夫 (joubu) is for everyday items like bags, clothes, and also human health. 頑丈 is rarely used for health.
Because it is a na-adjective, you conjugate the copula. In polite speech, it is 丈夫ではありません (joubu dewa arimasen) or 丈夫じゃないです (joubu ja nai desu). In casual speech, it is 丈夫ではない (joubu dewa nai) or 丈夫じゃない (joubu ja nai).
Yes! To use it as an adverb, change the 'な' to 'に'. For example, 丈夫に作る (joubu ni tsukuru) means 'to make sturdily' or 'to build durably'. This describes *how* the action of making is performed.
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Summary
丈夫 (joubu) describes the passive strength of endurance—things that don't break and bodies that don't get sick. It is essential for shopping for durable goods and discussing long-term health, but remember it's completely different from 大丈夫 (okay).
- Means 'durable' or 'sturdy' when applied to objects like bags, shoes, or buildings.
- Means 'healthy' or 'robust' when applied to people, especially children or the elderly.
- It is a na-adjective, meaning you must add 'な' (na) before a noun (e.g., 丈夫な靴).
- Do not confuse it with 大丈夫 (daijoubu), which means 'okay' or 'no problem.'
Don't forget the 'な'
Because 丈夫 is a na-adjective, the most common mistake is forgetting the 'な' when modifying a noun. Always say 丈夫なカバン, never 丈夫カバン. This small particle is the glue that connects the adjective to the noun.
Not for muscles
Remember that 丈夫 is about endurance, not power. Don't use it to describe a bodybuilder's strength. Use it to describe someone who never catches a cold or a grandfather who can still walk miles every day.
丈夫 vs 大丈夫
Burn this into your memory: 大丈夫 = Okay. 丈夫 = Durable/Healthy. They look similar but are used in completely different situations. Never say 丈夫です to mean 'No thank you' or 'I'm fine.'
Learn the set phrase: 体が丈夫
Instead of just saying 'I am healthy', native speakers often say 体が丈夫です (karada ga joubu desu - my body is strong/healthy). Memorizing this exact phrase will make your Japanese sound much more natural.
Example
このテーブルはとても丈夫です。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More general words
いくつか
B1An unspecified small number of things; some, a few.
ちょっと
A2A little; a moment; a bit. Small amount or short time.
すこし
A2A little; a few.
さっき
A2A little while ago; a short time past.
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
