硬さ
Meanings
1
Physical or metaphorical hardness; can refer to material properties, consistency, or rigidity. The kanji choice (硬・固・堅) may reflect nuance: 硬 for general hardness, 固 for solidity, 堅 for stiffness/tightness.
This bread has just the right firmness.
Measure the hardness of the metal.
2
honesty; integrity; uprightness
Only when written 堅さ
Metaphorical use referring to a person's character: being principled, honest, or unwavering. Often written 堅さ in this sense.
Everyone acknowledges his integrity.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉の硬さを測るto measure the hardness of something
We measure the hardness of this rubber.
- 硬さが増すfor hardness to increase
As it cooled, the chocolate became harder.
- 表情の硬さstiffness or tension in one's expression
Perhaps out of nervousness, his expression showed some stiffness.