Translation guide
The English word "strength" covers physical power, mental resilience, intensity, and strong points. Japanese uses different words depending on the nuance.
Bodily strength, muscular power, or physical force
General word for physical strength, power, or force. Can also mean ability or effort.
He is physically strong.
Please push with more strength.
Physical stamina or overall bodily strength, often used in contexts of health and fitness.
I exercise to build up my physical strength.
Muscular strength, often used in sports or medical contexts.
I do strength training every day.
Inner strength, fortitude, or willpower
Mental strength or willpower; the ability to endure hardship or stay determined.
I admire her mental strength.
Abstract strength, including emotional or character strength. Often used in phrases like 心の強さ (strength of heart).
Endurance or patience; the strength to persevere.
Strength of a substance, flavor, signal, etc.
Degree of intensity; used for wind, light, flavor, signal, etc.
Can you adjust the strength of the coffee?
The strength of the wind is increasing.
Concentration or density; used for liquids, solutions, or abstract intensity.
Technical term for strength or intensity, often used in engineering or science.
A quality or skill at which someone excels
One's forte, strong point, or advantage. Commonly used in business and personal contexts.
His strength is his negotiation skills.
Merit, strong point, or advantage. Often contrasted with 短所 (weakness).
Something one is good at; a personal strength or specialty. Often used as a na-adjective.
Ability of an object or material to withstand force or wear
力 (ちから) is concrete physical power or force, while 強さ (つよさ) is the abstract quality of being strong. Use 力 for bodily strength or effort, and 強さ for intensity or character strength.
English 'strength' covers many concepts. Using 力 for mental strength or a strong point can sound unnatural. Choose the word that matches the specific nuance.
She showed great strength in the face of adversity.
What are your strengths?
I overcame the difficulty through mental strength.
I was encouraged by his strength of heart.
It's a job that tests your endurance.
This medicine has a high strength (concentration).
Measure the strength (intensity) of the earthquake.
I'm looking for a job where I can use my strengths.
Please tell me your strengths and weaknesses.
English is my strength.
This product has excellent strength (durability).