Translation guide
In Japanese, describing a 'strong person' depends on the type of strength: physical, mental, emotional, or social. The most common and versatile word is 強い人 (tsuyoi hito), but other expressions capture resilience, toughness, or fortitude.
Describing someone with great physical power or athletic ability.
The most direct and common way to say 'strong person' in a general sense, including physical strength.
He is a very strong person.
Literally 'strength-holder', a person known for physical strength, often used for someone who can lift heavy things.
That person is really strong, isn't he?
A literary or formal term for great physical strength, often used in historical or fictional contexts.
He is a warrior of peerless strength.
Describing someone with resilience, fortitude, or the ability to endure hardship.
Literally 'person with a strong heart/mind', the most natural way to express mental or emotional strength.
She's a strong person mentally, so she'll be fine.
Emphasizes 'mental strength' or 'willpower'. Slightly more formal or analytical.
Literally 'resistant to being hit', meaning someone who can take criticism or setbacks well, resilient.
Loanword 'tough', used for both physical and mental toughness, common in casual speech.
That person is really tough, isn't he?
Describing someone with integrity, determination, or a strong sense of self.
Focuses on strong will or determination, often used for someone who sticks to their goals.
A strong-willed person doesn't give in to temptation.
Implies a strong, assertive, or sometimes stubborn personality. Can have a nuance of being headstrong.
Literally 'strong person', often used in contrast to '弱者' (weak person) in philosophical, social, or competitive contexts. Can sound abstract.
Describing someone who excels or is formidable in a particular area.
Pattern meaning 'a person strong in ~'. Replace 〜 with the area (e.g., 数字に強い人 'good with numbers', 交渉に強い人 'strong negotiator').
He's a person who's good with numbers.
We're looking for someone strong in negotiation.
Simply saying 「強い人」 without context often defaults to physical strength. To clearly express mental or emotional strength, use phrases like 「心が強い人」 or 「精神力が強い人」.
「気が強い」 often implies a forceful or assertive personality, sometimes with a nuance of being stubborn or aggressive. 「意志が強い」 focuses on strong willpower and determination in a more positive, goal-oriented sense.
A person with strong mental fortitude doesn't give in to hardship.
He's a resilient person, so he bounces back quickly even after failure.
She's a strong-minded person, so she speaks her mind clearly.
He is a truly strong person.
She is strong-willed (determined).