Translation guide
The English adverb 'strongly' is used to intensify actions, opinions, feelings, and physical properties. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; instead, various adverbs and expressions are used depending on the context. This guide organizes the most common uses of 'strongly' and provides natural Japanese options for each.
To say that you believe, feel, or think something very firmly.
The most direct and versatile adverb for 'strongly' when modifying verbs like 思う (think), 感じる (feel), 信じる (believe), etc. It works in both spoken and written Japanese.
私はそう強く思います。
I strongly think so.
I strongly believe in his innocence.
Means 'firmly' or 'resolutely'. Used when expressing a strong, unwavering stance, often in formal or written contexts.
彼はその提案に断固として反対した。
He strongly opposed the proposal.
Literally 'hard' or 'firmly', used with verbs like 信じる (believe) or 決心する (resolve) to indicate a strong, unshakable conviction.
成功を固く信じています。
I firmly believe in success.
A verb meaning 'to strongly argue' or 'to emphasize'. Use this when someone is making a point forcefully.
彼は環境保護の重要性を力説した。
He strongly emphasized the importance of environmental protection.
To say that you strongly recommend, advise, or urge someone to do something.
Again, the most common adverb. Use with verbs like 勧める (recommend), 忠告する (advise), 望む (hope/desire).
この本を強くお勧めします。
I strongly recommend this book.
医者は彼に禁煙を強く忠告した。
The doctor strongly advised him to quit smoking.
Means 'earnestly' or 'strongly' when expressing a heartfelt wish or request. Often used with 願う (wish/request) or 望む (desire).
An adverb meaning 'by all means' or 'definitely'. It adds a sense of strong invitation or recommendation, often used in casual to semi-formal speech.
是非来てください。
Please do come. (I strongly urge you to come.)
To describe an action done with physical strength or great intensity.
The standard adverb for physical strength. Use with verbs like 押す (push), 握る (grip), 打つ (hit), etc.
ドアを強く押してください。
Please push the door strongly.
彼は私の手を強く握った。
He gripped my hand strongly.
Means 'powerfully' or 'forcefully'. Emphasizes the use of strength or energy.
彼は力強くペダルをこいだ。
He pedaled strongly/powerfully.
Means 'violently' or 'intensely'. Used for actions that are strong in a turbulent or fierce way, like rain, wind, or emotions.
雨が激しく降っている。
It's raining strongly/heavily.
To describe a strong sensory experience or a strong impression left by something.
Works for smells, tastes, and impressions when used with appropriate verbs or adjectives.
この部屋はタバコの匂いが強くする。
This room smells strongly of cigarettes.
彼の言葉が強く印象に残った。
His words left a strong impression on me.
Used specifically for strong tastes, colors, or density (e.g., strong coffee, thick makeup).
このコーヒーは濃くて美味しい。
This coffee is strong and delicious.
An onomatopoeic adverb for a strong, pungent smell, often unpleasant. Very colloquial.
To describe language that is forceful, emphatic, or harsh.
Can modify verbs like 言う (say), 非難する (criticize), 抗議する (protest).
彼はその決定に強く抗議した。
He strongly protested the decision.
Means 'strictly' or 'severely'. Used when criticizing or scolding strongly.
先生は生徒を厳しく叱った。
The teacher strongly scolded the student.
Means 'bitterly' or 'scathingly'. Used for very strong criticism.
彼は政府の政策を痛烈に批判した。
He strongly/scathingly criticized the government's policy.
While 強く (tsuyoku) is the most common equivalent, it cannot be used for all senses of 'strongly'. For example, 'strongly built' is 頑丈な (ganjou na), not 強く建てられた. Always consider the specific meaning you want to convey.
強く is the general term for 'strongly'. 力強く emphasizes physical power or forcefulness. 激しく implies intensity with a sense of violence or turbulence. Choose based on the nuance you need.
I strongly request your understanding.
酒の匂いがぷんぷんする。
He reeks of alcohol. (lit. smells strongly of alcohol)