He overcame the difficulties with a spirit of fortitude.
柔 means softness or gentleness, standing in direct classical contrast to the hardness and toughness of 剛.
stiffness; rigidity
stiff hair; coarse hair; bristle
vigorous; sturdy; robust
rigid body
blazing fastball; powerful fastball
fortitude; firmness of character; inner strength
vajra; diamond; adamantine · thunderbolt; Indra's weapon; Buddhist symbol
tough at heart; strong-willed inside
chilling (steel)
Standard kanji spelling for this noun/adjectival noun.
Alternate kanji form; less common than 剛 for this meaning.
The kanji 剛 carries the meaning of strength and firmness. The reading ごう is the on'yomi. The exact historical derivation of the word is uncertain, but it has been used in classical Japanese to denote a person of valor or fortitude.
bravery; prowess; valor
strength; firmness; fortitude
obstinacy; stubbornness; self-will
valor and decisiveness
hardness and softness; strength and flexibility
fastball; heavy fastball; powerful pitch
integrity; moral courage; rigidity
obstinacy; stubbornness