Translation guide
Describes objects, structures, or people that are physically strong, durable, and not easily broken or damaged. The best Japanese word depends on what is being described and the nuance of strength.
Describing things that are solidly built and can withstand force or wear.
The most common and versatile word for 'sturdy'. Used for objects, buildings, furniture, and even people. Emphasizes solid construction and resistance to breaking.
This desk is very sturdy.
I bought sturdy shoes.
Similar to 頑丈 but slightly more everyday. Often used for clothing, bags, and everyday items. Implies durability and long-lasting quality.
This bag is sturdy and lasts a long time.
Describes something thick, solid, and sturdily built, often with a sense of heaviness. Commonly used for buildings, furniture, and body types.
It's a sturdy desk.
A formal, somewhat literary term for 'sturdy' or 'solid', often used in technical descriptions of buildings, safes, or software.
A sturdily built safe.
Describing a person or animal with a strong, solid build.
Often used for a person's sturdy, thick-set build. Implies a solid, muscular frame.
He has a sturdy build.
Can also describe a person's robust health or strong body, but more commonly used for objects.
Means 'sturdy' in the sense of 'rugged' or 'brawny', often with a positive nuance of strength and reliability.
Emphasizing that something won't easily tear, break, or wear out.
Describing something that doesn't shake or move easily.
Means 'stable' and is used when sturdiness refers to lack of wobbling or tipping.
This stepladder is sturdy and safe.
A very common word meaning 'firm', 'solid', or 'steady'. Used for handshakes, structures, and personalities.
It's a sturdy desk.
Both mean 'sturdy' or 'durable', but 頑丈 (がんじょう) often implies a heavier, more rugged sturdiness, while 丈夫 (じょうぶ) is more common for everyday items like clothing and bags. 頑丈 can also describe people, while 丈夫 is rarely used for body build.
English 'sturdy' is almost always physical. For abstract strength (e.g., 'sturdy argument'), use しっかりした or 堅実な (けんじつな).
This chair is very sturdy.
He has a sturdy build.
I need a sturdy bag for hiking.
彼は頑丈な体をしている。
He has a sturdy body.
Sturdy arms.
頑丈な素材でできている。
It's made of sturdy material.