線が太い · i-adjective
| Form | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Dictionary | 線が太い | 線が太くない |
| Polite | 線が太いです | 線が太くないですalso 線が太くありません |
| Past polite | 線が太かったです | 線が太くなかったですalso 線が太くありませんでした |
| Past | 線が太かった | 線が太くなかった |
| Te-form | 線が太くて | 線が太くなくて |
| Adverbial | 線が太く | |
| Conditional | 線が太ければ | 線が太くなければ |
| Tara conditional | 線が太かったら | 線が太くなかったら |
impressive; tough; having a strong presence
Idiomatic expression describing a person or thing that has a bold, solid, or imposing quality, often used for someone with a strong character or presence. Literally 'the line is thick', suggesting robustness.
He's tough, so he won't be discouraged by a few failures.
あの新人は線が太くて、大舞台でも物怖じしない。
That newcomer has a strong presence and isn't intimidated even on a big stage.
The expression likely derives from the visual metaphor of a thick line being strong and prominent, applied figuratively to a person's character or presence. The exact origin is uncertain.