Explanation at your level:
Hello! Today we learn the word 強い (tsuyoi). It means 'strong.' You can say a person is 強い. That means they are not weak. Maybe they can lift heavy things! You can also say the wind is 強い. That means the wind is big and blows hard. If you drink something and it tastes very strong, like coffee, you can say it is 強い. So, 強い means 'strong' or 'powerful.' It's a very useful word!
The Japanese adjective 強い (tsuyoi) translates to 'strong' in English. It's used to describe various kinds of strength. For example, you can talk about a 強い person (tsuyoi hito), meaning someone physically strong or mentally tough. You might also use it for natural phenomena, like a 強い wind (tsuyoi kaze), which is a powerful gust of wind. It's also common to describe tastes or smells as 強い, such as 強いコーヒー (tsuyoi kōhī) for strong coffee. Remember, it indicates a high degree of power or intensity.
強い (tsuyoi) is a fundamental Japanese adjective signifying 'strong,' 'powerful,' or 'intense.' Its application is broad, extending beyond mere physical strength. You can describe a person's 強い意志 (tsuyoi ishi) – strong will – or a 強い印象 (tsuyoi inshou) – a strong impression. In terms of sensory experiences, 強い is used for potent flavors (強い味 - tsuyoi aji) or intense smells. It can also describe the force of nature, like a 強い雨 (tsuyoi ame) – heavy rain. Understanding its various contexts, from personal attributes to environmental descriptions, is key to using it effectively.
The Japanese adjective 強い (tsuyoi) denotes a high degree of strength, power, or intensity across multiple domains. Beyond its literal meaning of physical robustness (e.g., 強い体 - tsuyoi karada, strong body), it is frequently employed metaphorically. Consider its use in describing abstract concepts like 強い信念 (tsuyoi shinnen) – a strong belief – or 強い影響力 (tsuyoi eikyōryoku) – strong influence. It can also indicate the severity of something, such as a 強い痛み (tsuyoi itami) – severe pain. Furthermore, 強い can describe the intensity of emotions or opinions. Recognizing the nuances between its physical and abstract applications is crucial for accurate comprehension and usage.
強い (tsuyoi) is a polysemous adjective in Japanese, extending far beyond a simple definition of 'strong.' Its semantic range encompasses physical power, emotional fortitude, intensity of sensation, and the magnitude of abstract concepts. In literary or sophisticated contexts, 強い might describe a 強い個性 (tsuyoi kosei) – a distinctive personality – or a 強いメッセージ (tsuyoi messēji) – a powerful message. It can also denote the persistence of something, like a 強い記憶 (tsuyoi kioku) – a vivid memory. The adjective's versatility allows it to function in describing everything from the resilience of materials to the depth of political convictions. Careful attention to context is necessary to discern its precise shade of meaning, which can range from sheer force to profound impact.
The Japanese adjective 強い (tsuyoi) represents a core concept of power and intensity, deeply embedded in the language's lexicon. Its etymological roots suggest a notion of firmness and unyielding quality, which has evolved to encompass a vast semantic field. Beyond its common applications describing physical strength, potent flavors, or severe weather, 強い can be found in nuanced expressions related to psychological states, societal forces, and even philosophical concepts. For instance, it can signify a 強い決意 (tsuyoi ketsui) – an unshakeable resolve – or a 強い時代 (tsuyoi jidai) – an era of great change or power. Its use in classical literature or formal discourse might carry connotations of dominance or profound influence. Understanding 強い involves appreciating its capacity to articulate not just magnitude, but also the inherent quality of being potent, enduring, or deeply felt.
Word in 30 Seconds
- <strong>強い (tsuyoi)</strong> means 'strong', 'powerful', or 'intense'.
- Used for physical strength, willpower, emotions, tastes, weather, and more.
- Common collocations include 強い力 (strong power) and 強い意志 (strong will).
- Remember its adverb form 強く (tsuyoku) and passive form 強いられる (to be forced).
Hey there! Let's dive into the awesome Japanese word 強い (tsuyoi). It's a super versatile adjective that pops up in all sorts of situations. Think of it as the go-to word when you want to describe something that has a lot of power, force, or intensity. It’s not just about muscles, though! You can use 強い to talk about someone's personality, like their determination or willpower. It can also describe things like a strong smell, a powerful storm, or even a deep emotion like love or hatred. It’s a fundamental word that helps you paint a vivid picture of strength and impact in Japanese!
When you say someone is 強い, you might be talking about their physical ability to lift heavy things or their mental toughness to overcome challenges. A 強い wind can blow down trees, and a 強い coffee will wake you right up! It’s all about that sense of being more than average, having a significant presence or effect. Mastering 強い will really boost your ability to express a wide range of powerful concepts in Japanese.
The Japanese word 強い (tsuyoi) has a long and fascinating history, tracing its roots back to ancient Japanese. Its etymology is thought to be connected to the idea of being 'firm' or 'hard.' In classical Japanese, variations of this word were used to describe things that were solid, unyielding, or substantial.
Over centuries, the meaning evolved and broadened. Originally, it might have focused more on physical rigidity, but it gradually came to encompass a wider spectrum of strength. Think about how a sturdy tree is 'strong,' and how a person with a 'strong' will is also described using the same concept. This linguistic journey reflects a cultural understanding that resilience, power, and intensity are interconnected qualities.
Interestingly, the kanji 強 itself is composed of two parts: a symbol for 'bow' (弓) and another for 'strong.' This visual representation might hint at the idea of drawing a bowstring taut, requiring significant strength. This connection between the written form and the meaning is a common feature in East Asian languages, making words like 強い not just sounds but also visual concepts.
強い (tsuyoi) is an incredibly common and useful adjective in Japanese, appearing in countless everyday situations. It’s a flexible word that can modify nouns directly or be used with the auxiliary verb da (です/だ) in sentences. You’ll hear it used to describe everything from a person’s physical capabilities to the intensity of a storm or the depth of an emotion.
Some common collocations, or word pairings, include:
- 強い力 (tsuyoi chikara): strong power/force
- 強い風 (tsuyoi kaze): strong wind
- 強い味 (tsuyoi aji): strong taste (like strong coffee or soy sauce)
- 強い意志 (tsuyoi ishi): strong will/determination
- 強い印象 (tsuyoi inshou): strong impression
- 強い光 (tsuyoi hikari): strong light
When you're speaking casually, you might use 強い to describe a friend's athletic ability or how much you like a certain flavor. In more formal settings, like business or academic contexts, it can be used to discuss market trends, political influence, or scientific phenomena. The key is that 強い always conveys a sense of significant magnitude or power.
While 強い (tsuyoi) is a straightforward adjective, it appears in several idiomatic expressions that add color and nuance to the Japanese language. These phrases often go beyond the literal meaning of 'strong' and convey more specific or figurative ideas.
Here are a few examples:
- 強いられる (shiirareru): This is the passive form, meaning 'to be forced' or 'to be compelled.' It implies that external pressure makes someone do something against their will. Example: 彼は無理に働くことを強いられた。(Kare wa muri ni hataraku koto o shiirareru.) - He was forced to work unreasonably.
- 強い酒 (tsuyoi sake): Literally 'strong alcohol,' this refers to potent alcoholic beverages like whiskey or sake with a high alcohol content. Example: 強い酒は苦手です。(Tsuyoi sake wa nigate desu.) - I'm not good with strong alcohol.
- 強い風邪 (tsuyoi kaze): While 'strong wind' is common, this phrase can sometimes imply a severe or harsh wind. Example: 昨夜はとても強い風が吹いた。(Sakuya wa totemo tsuyoi kaze ga fuita.) - A very strong wind blew last night.
- 強い関心 (tsuyoi kanshin): This means 'strong interest' or 'keen interest.' It's used when someone is very curious or invested in a topic. Example: 彼はその新しいプロジェクトに強い関心を示した。(Kare wa sono atarashii purojekuto ni tsuyoi kanshin o shimeshita.) - He showed a strong interest in the new project.
- 強い言葉 (tsuyoi kotoba): This refers to harsh, critical, or powerful words. It can be words that have a significant emotional impact. Example: 彼女は彼に強い言葉で非難した。(Kanojo wa kare ni tsuyoi kotoba de hinan shita.) - She criticized him with harsh words.
Understanding these expressions helps you grasp the deeper cultural and contextual uses of the concept of 'strength' in Japanese.
Let's break down the grammar and pronunciation of 強い (tsuyoi). As an adjective, it functions very similarly to other i-adjectives in Japanese. It can modify nouns directly, appearing before them, or it can be used predicatively at the end of a sentence, often with the copula da (です/だ).
Pronunciation:
- IPA (Japanese): /tsɯ̹.jo̞.i/
- Syllables: tsu-yo-i (three morae, often perceived as two or three syllables in English).
- Sounds like: The 'tsu' is like the start of 'tsunami.' 'yo' is like in 'yo-yo.' 'i' is like the 'ee' in 'see.'
- Stress: Japanese pronunciation is generally flatter than English, but there's a slight emphasis on the 'yo' sound.
Grammar Points:
- Modifying Nouns: 強い + Noun. Example: 強い人 (tsuyoi hito) - strong person.
- Predicative Use: Noun + は/が + 強い + です/だ. Example: このコーヒーは強いです。(Kono kōhī wa tsuyoi desu.) - This coffee is strong.
- Adverbial Form: The adverbial form is 強く (tsuyoku). Example: 彼は強く信じている。(Kare wa tsuyoku shinjite iru.) - He believes strongly.
- Verb Conjugation: As an i-adjective, it conjugates for tense and negation: 強かった (tsuyokatta - was strong), 強くない (tsuyokunai - is not strong), 強くなかった (tsuyokunakatta - was not strong).
Rhyming Words: Finding perfect rhymes in Japanese is different due to syllable structure. However, words ending in '-oi' might share similar vowel sounds, like oishii (delicious) or akai (red), though the initial consonants differ.
Fun Fact
The kanji <strong>強</strong> visually combines 'bow' (弓) and 'strong,' possibly evoking the tension and power needed to draw a bow.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'tsoo-YOY', with the emphasis on the second syllable.
Sounds like 'tsoo-YOH-ee', with the emphasis on the second syllable.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'soo'.
- Adding an extra syllable or stress inappropriately.
- Not clearly distinguishing the 'yo' sound.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Common vocabulary, but nuances require context.
Straightforward adjective usage, but adverbial and passive forms add complexity.
Easy to pronounce and use in basic sentences, but advanced usage requires practice.
Frequently heard, but distinguishing nuances from similar words needs good comprehension.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Japanese i-Adjective Conjugation
強い -> 強かった (past), 強くない (negative)
Using Adjectives as Adverbs
強い -> 強く (e.g., 強く信じる)
Passive Voice (受身形 - Ukemi-kei)
強いる (to force) -> 強いられる (to be forced)
Examples by Level
これは強い犬です。
This strong dog is.
Adjective comes before noun.
風が強いです。
Wind strong is.
Describing weather.
強い味です。
Strong taste is.
Describing food/drink.
彼は強いです。
He strong is.
Describing a person's strength.
強い光。
Strong light.
Describing light intensity.
強い気持ち。
Strong feeling.
Describing emotions.
強い雨。
Strong rain.
Describing weather intensity.
強い声。
Strong voice.
Describing vocal quality.
その力士はとても強いです。
That sumo wrestler very strong is.
Describing physical strength.
このコーヒーは味が強い。
This coffee taste strong.
Describing taste intensity.
昨夜は強い風が吹きました。
Last night strong wind blew.
Describing weather phenomena.
彼は強い意志を持っています。
He strong will has.
Describing personality trait.
強い光が目に痛かった。
Strong light eyes painful was.
Describing sensory experience.
彼女は強い選手です。
She strong player is.
Describing athletic ability.
強い香りがします。
Strong scent it smells.
Describing smell intensity.
この薬は強いので注意してください。
This medicine strong because caution please do.
Describing potency/effect.
彼はどんな困難にも強い精神力を持っている。
He any hardship even strong mental power has.
Describing mental resilience.
この地域は地震が多いので、強い家が必要です。
This region earthquakes many because, strong houses necessary.
Describing structural integrity.
強い日差しで日焼け止めを塗りました。
Strong sunlight with sunscreen applied.
Describing intensity of natural elements.
彼は強いリーダーシップを発揮した。
He strong leadership demonstrated.
Describing leadership quality.
このワインは風味が強い。
This wine flavor strong.
Describing complex flavors.
強い反対意見が出された。
Strong opposing opinion was presented.
Describing intensity of opinions.
彼女は強い運動能力を持っている。
She strong athletic ability has.
Describing physical capabilities.
強い衝撃で車が壊れた。
Strong impact by car broke.
Describing force of impact.
その政治家は国民に強い影響力を持っている。
That politician people on strong influence has.
Describing influence/impact.
彼は強い信念に基づいて行動した。
He strong belief based on acted.
Describing conviction.
強いストレスは健康に悪影響を与える。
Strong stress health on negative effect gives.
Describing severity of conditions.
この新しい技術は市場に強い衝撃を与えた。
This new technology market on strong shock gave.
Describing impact on a market.
強い言葉で彼を非難した。
Strong words with him criticized.
Describing harsh language.
彼女は強い競争意識を持っている。
She strong competitive spirit has.
Describing personality traits.
強い酒は体に良くない。
Strong alcohol body to good not.
Describing potency of substances.
強い絆で結ばれた友人たち。
Strong bond by tied friends.
Describing deep relationships.
彼の作品は社会に対する強いメッセージ性を帯びている。
His works society towards strong message-ness carries.
Describing symbolic or thematic intensity.
強い覚悟を持って、彼はその困難な任務に挑んだ。
Strong resolve with, he that difficult mission towards challenged.
Describing deep determination.
その都市は強い文化的なアイデンティティを保持している。
That city strong cultural identity maintains.
Describing cultural distinctiveness.
強い郷愁の念に駆られた。
Strong nostalgic feeling by driven.
Describing intense emotions.
その法律は国民の間に強い反発を招いた。
That law people among strong backlash invited.
Describing public reaction.
強い生命力を持つ植物だ。
Strong life-force has plant is.
Describing vitality and resilience.
彼の発言は強い批判の的となった。
His statement strong criticism's target became.
Describing the focus of criticism.
強い磁場が発生した。
Strong magnetic field generated.
Describing scientific phenomena.
その作家は、人間の心理の深淵をえぐるような強い筆致で知られている。
That author, human psychology's abyss to excavate like strong writing-style with known.
Describing a profound and impactful artistic style.
強い権力構造が社会の隅々にまで浸透していた。
Strong power structure society's every corner to permeated.
Describing pervasive and deep-rooted systems.
彼は強い哲学的な探求心から、多くの書物を紐解いた。
He strong philosophical spirit from, many books unraveled.
Describing intellectual drive and depth.
その時代の芸術は、社会変革への強い希求を反映していた。
That era's art, social change towards strong yearning reflected.
Describing societal aspirations.
強い倫理観に基づいた彼の行動は、多くの人々に感銘を与えた。
Strong ethical sense based on his actions, many people on impression gave.
Describing a deeply ingrained moral compass.
強い影響力を持つ言語は、文化の伝播において重要な役割を果たす。
Strong influence has language, culture's propagation in important role plays.
Describing linguistic and cultural impact.
強い意志の力だけが、彼を絶望の淵から救い出した。
Strong will's power only, him despair's abyss from saved.
Describing the ultimate power of determination.
その科学理論は、既存のパラダイムに対する強い挑戦を提示した。
That scientific theory, existing paradigm towards strong challenge presented.
Describing a paradigm-shifting intellectual contribution.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"強いられる (shiirareru)"
To be forced, compelled, or obliged to do something against one's will.
彼は親の期待に応えることを強いられていた。(Kare wa oya no kitai ni kotaeru koto o shiirareru.) - He was compelled to meet his parents' expectations.
neutral"強い風邪をひく (tsuyoi kaze o hiku)"
To catch a severe cold or flu.
昨夜、強い風邪をひいてしまった。(Sakuya, tsuyoi kaze o hiite shimatta.) - I caught a bad cold last night.
casual"強い関心を示す (tsuyoi kanshin o shimesu)"
To show a strong interest or keen attention towards something.
彼はその新しいプロジェクトに強い関心を示した。(Kare wa sono atarashii purojekuto ni tsuyoi kanshin o shimeshita.) - He showed a strong interest in the new project.
neutral"強い口調で話す (tsuyoi kuchou de hanasu)"
To speak in a forceful, assertive, or stern tone.
彼女は強い口調で間違いを指摘した。(Kanojo wa tsuyoi kuchou de machigai o shiteki shita.) - She pointed out the mistake in a firm tone.
neutral"強いられる選択 (shiirareru sentaku)"
A choice that one is forced to make, often a difficult or unpleasant one.
それは、どちらを選んでも後悔するであろう強いられる選択だった。(Sore wa, dochira o erande mo kōkai suru de arō shiirareru sentaku datta.) - It was a forced choice where either option would likely lead to regret.
formal"強い意志の力 (tsuyoi ishi no chikara)"
The power of strong willpower or determination.
強い意志の力があれば、どんな困難も乗り越えられる。(Tsuyoi ishi no chikara ga areba, donna konnan mo norikoerareru.) - With the power of strong willpower, any difficulty can be overcome.
neutralEasily Confused
Both describe intensity.
激しい implies more violence, fierceness, or turbulence (e.g.,激しい雨 - heavy rain, 激しい怒り - violent anger). 強い is more general strength or power.
強い風 (tsuyoi kaze) - strong wind; 激しい風 (hageshii kaze) - fierce wind. 強い悲しみ (tsuyoi kanashimi) - deep sadness; 激しい悲しみ (hageshii kanashimi) - overwhelming grief.
Both can relate to physical strength.
頑丈な specifically means sturdy, robust, durable, and resistant to damage (e.g.,頑丈な体 - a sturdy body, 頑丈な机 - a sturdy desk). 強い is more about inherent power or force.
強い人 (tsuyoi hito) - a strong person (can be mental or physical); 頑丈な人 (ganjou-na hito) - a robust/sturdy person (physically strong build).
Both can describe intensity, especially for taste/smell.
濃厚な refers to richness, depth, and concentration, particularly for flavors and scents (e.g., 濃厚な味 - rich taste). 強い is a more general intensity.
強いコーヒー (tsuyoi kōhī) - strong coffee (general intensity); 濃厚なコーヒー (noukou-na kōhī) - rich/deep coffee flavor.
Both mean strong and powerful.
力強い often emphasizes the 'power' aspect (力 - chikara) more directly, suggesting might or vigor, often physical. 強い is broader.
強いパンチ (tsuyoi panchi) - a strong punch; 力強いパンチ (chikara-zuyoi panchi) - a powerful/mighty punch.
Sentence Patterns
Noun + は/が + 強い (です/だ)
彼の意志は強いです。(Kare no ishi wa tsuyoi desu.) - His will is strong.
強い + Noun
強い風が吹いています。(Tsuyoi kaze ga fuite imasu.) - A strong wind is blowing.
Noun + を + 強く + Verb
私はそれを強く望みます。(Watashi wa sore o tsuyoku nozomimasu.) - I strongly desire that.
Noun + に + 強い
彼は数学に強い。(Kare wa sūgaku ni tsuyoi.) - He is strong in mathematics.
Noun + が + 強い
この地域は地震が多いので、建物が強くないと心配だ。(Kono chiiki wa jishin ga ooi node, tatemono ga tsuyoku nai to shinpai da.) - Because this region has many earthquakes, I worry if buildings aren't strong.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
While both indicate intensity, 激しい implies more outward, potentially destructive force, whereas 強い can be internal and deep.
頑丈な emphasizes resistance to damage and wear, while 強い emphasizes inherent power or ability to withstand force.
濃厚な specifically refers to the richness and depth of flavor, while 強い is more general intensity.
Adjectives have their own conjugation rules distinct from verbs.
強い refers to inherent power or force, not acquired skill or proficiency.
Tips
Connect 'Tsunami' to Strength
Remember the 'tsu' sound in 強い? Think of a 'tsunami' - a powerful and strong natural force! This can help you recall the meaning of 'strong'.
Think Beyond Muscles
Don't limit 強い to just physical strength. Use it for emotions (strong feelings), tastes (strong coffee), weather (strong wind), and willpower (strong determination).
Strength in Resilience
Japanese culture often values inner strength and resilience (精神的な強さ - seishinteki na tsuyosa). 強い can capture this mental fortitude effectively.
Adjective Power
Remember 強い is an i-adjective. It changes its ending for tense and negation (e.g., 強かった - tsuyokatta, 強くない - tsuyokunai).
Smooth 'tsu-yo-i'
Practice saying 'tsu-yo-i' smoothly. Avoid making the 'tsu' sound too harsh or like 'soo'.
Avoid 'Strong' Building Mistakes
For sturdy structures, prefer 頑丈な (ganjou-na) over just 強い (tsuyoi) for clarity.
Kanji Clue
The kanji 強 looks like a bow (弓) being pulled taut – a visual cue for needing strength!
Collocation Power-Up
Learn 強い with common word pairs like 強い力, 強い風, 強い意志. This builds practical vocabulary.
Adverbial Strength
Don't forget the adverb form 強く (tsuyoku) to modify verbs, like 強く信じる (to believe strongly).
Visual Storytelling
Create a mental image or mini-story where 'Tsuyo-i' the strong character performs an action. The more vivid, the better!
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'tsunami' (tsu-) that is incredibly 'yoi' (yo-i) - meaning 'good' at destroying things, hence very strong!
Visual Association
Picture a muscular superhero easily lifting a car. The car looks 'tsu-yo-i' (like 'too strong' to lift).
Word Web
Challenge
Try describing five things you see around you using 強い (tsuyoi) and explain why.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: Likely related to firmness, hardness, or being substantial.
Cultural Context
Generally not culturally sensitive, but context matters. Describing someone as 'strong' can be a compliment, but in certain contexts, it might imply stubbornness or aggression.
In English-speaking cultures, 'strong' is used similarly for physical power, character, and intensity. Concepts like 'strength of character' or 'strong opinions' are very common.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing people
- 彼は強い人だ。(Kare wa tsuyoi hito da.) - He is a strong person.
- 精神的に強い。(Seishinteki ni tsuyoi.) - Mentally strong.
- 運動神経が強い。(Undō shinkei ga tsuyoi.) - Has strong athletic reflexes.
Describing nature/weather
- 強い風が吹いている。(Tsuyoi kaze ga fuite iru.) - A strong wind is blowing.
- 強い日差しだ。(Tsuyoi hizashi da.) - The sunlight is strong.
- 強い雨が降っている。(Tsuyoi ame ga futte iru.) - Heavy rain is falling.
Describing food/drink
- このコーヒーは強い味だ。(Kono kōhī wa tsuyoi aji da.) - This coffee has a strong taste.
- 強いお酒 (Tsuyoi osake) - Strong alcohol.
Describing abstract concepts
- 強い意志 (Tsuyoi ishi) - Strong will
- 強い関心 (Tsuyoi kanshin) - Strong interest
- 強い影響力 (Tsuyoi eikyōryoku) - Strong influence
Conversation Starters
"What's something you find really strong or impressive?"
"Do you think physical strength or mental strength is more important? Why?"
"Can you describe a time you felt really strong, either physically or emotionally?"
"What kind of weather do you find 'strong' or intense?"
"If you could have one superpower, what kind of strength would you want?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a person you know who is very strong (in any sense of the word).
Describe a challenging situation you overcame. How did you find your inner strength?
Think about a strong flavor or smell. Describe it in detail.
What does 'strength' mean to you personally? Write your definition.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsNo, 強い is very versatile. It can describe physical strength, mental fortitude, strong emotions, intense flavors, powerful natural phenomena, and much more.
While both mean strong, 力強い often emphasizes power and forcefulness, especially physical power, like a 'powerful punch'. 強い is more general.
Yes, you can say someone has 強い意見 (tsuyoi iken - strong opinion) or 強い信念 (tsuyoi shinnen - strong belief).
You can say 強いコーヒー (tsuyoi kōhī). If the coffee is very rich and deep in flavor, you might also use 濃厚なコーヒー (noukou-na kōhī).
The most direct opposite is 弱い (yowai), meaning weak.
Yes, the adverbial form is 強く (tsuyoku). For example, 強く信じる (tsuyoku shinjiru) means 'to believe strongly'.
While you can say a building is 強い, it's more common and precise to use 頑丈な (ganjou-na) for buildings that are sturdy and durable, especially against things like earthquakes.
It's the passive form of the verb 強いる (shiiru), meaning 'to be forced' or 'to be compelled' to do something.
Test Yourself
この風はとても ______ です。
The sentence describes the wind as being very strong.
「強い意志」は何を意味しますか？ (What does 'tsuyoi ishi' mean?)
'Ishi' means intention or will, so 'tsuyoi ishi' means strong will.
「強い味」は、弱い味という意味です。(Tsuyoi aji means a weak taste.)
強い味 means a strong taste, not a weak one.
Word
Meaning
Matching the Japanese phrases with their English equivalents.
The sentence means 'He drank the coffee strongly,' implying he drank it quickly or intensely.
この建物は地震に ______ ように作られています。(Kono tatemono wa jishin ni ______ you ni tsukurarete imasu.)
The sentence means 'This building is made to be strong against earthquakes.'
「強いメッセージ性を持つ」とは、どのような意味ですか？(What does 'tsuyoi messēji-sei o motsu' mean?)
It signifies having a profound or significant message that strongly impacts the audience.
Translate: 'He was forced to make a difficult decision.'
The passive form 'shiirareru' correctly conveys being forced.
その思想は、当時の社会に ______ な影響を与えた。(Sono shisou wa, touji no shakai ni ______ na eikyō o ataeta.)
強力な (kyouryoku na) is a more formal synonym for strong/powerful, fitting the context of societal impact.
Create a sentence using 強い (tsuyoi) to describe a person's character.
This demonstrates using 強い to describe inner resilience.
Score: /10
Summary
Mastering 強い (tsuyoi) unlocks descriptions of power and intensity across a vast range of contexts in Japanese.
- <strong>強い (tsuyoi)</strong> means 'strong', 'powerful', or 'intense'.
- Used for physical strength, willpower, emotions, tastes, weather, and more.
- Common collocations include 強い力 (strong power) and 強い意志 (strong will).
- Remember its adverb form 強く (tsuyoku) and passive form 強いられる (to be forced).
Connect 'Tsunami' to Strength
Remember the 'tsu' sound in 強い? Think of a 'tsunami' - a powerful and strong natural force! This can help you recall the meaning of 'strong'.
Think Beyond Muscles
Don't limit 強い to just physical strength. Use it for emotions (strong feelings), tastes (strong coffee), weather (strong wind), and willpower (strong determination).
Strength in Resilience
Japanese culture often values inner strength and resilience (精神的な強さ - seishinteki na tsuyosa). 強い can capture this mental fortitude effectively.
Adjective Power
Remember 強い is an i-adjective. It changes its ending for tense and negation (e.g., 強かった - tsuyokatta, 強くない - tsuyokunai).
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
More general words
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.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
