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Kotomora

硬かたい

か
た
い
Common wordJLPTN4Freq.Top 10,000

Meanings

1

i-adjective

hard; solid; tough

Physical hardness or solidity. 硬い is typical for metal and stone; 固い for firm, solid objects; 堅い for wood and compact materials.

2

i-adjective

stiff; tight; wooden; unpolished

Lacking flexibility or smoothness. Can describe muscles, joints, writing style, or a formal atmosphere. 堅い is common for stiff writing or formal demeanor.

3

i-adjective

strong; firm; not easily moved

Firm and resistant to pressure or change. Used for resolve, belief, or a substance that holds its shape. 固い is common for firm resolve.

4

i-adjective

steadfast; honest; safe; obstinate

Describes a person's character as reliable and upright, or stubbornly inflexible. 堅い is typical for a trustworthy person; 固い can imply stubbornness. Also used for a safe bet or steady performance.

5

i-adjective

bookish; formal; stuffy

Overly formal, rigid, or lacking casual warmth. Often used for speech, writing, or atmosphere. 堅い is the typical kanji for this sense.

Antonyms: くだけた

Usage patterns