壮实

• Pinyin: zhuàng shi
• Hanzi breakdown: 壮 = 丬 + 士 (strong); 实 = 宀 + 头 (solid)

Meaning

Sturdy; robust; strongly built. Describing a person or animal with a solid, muscular physique.

A colloquial adjective for healthy, strong physical builds. Often used approvingly for children who have grown well or adults with solid frames. Implies good health and strength without being overly muscular.

Examples

1. 这孩子长得可真壮实。 This kid is really sturdy and strong.
2. 他虽然个子不高，但身体很壮实。 Even though he's not tall, he's solidly built.
3. 农村的小伙子个个都很壮实。 The young guys in the countryside are all sturdy and strong.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, description, colloquial

Tone: approving

Do Say

• 多吃点肉，长得壮实些。(Eat more meat so you can grow stronger.)
• 这头牛长得又肥又壮实。(This cow has grown plump and sturdy.)

Don't Say

• 这栋楼很壮实 — for buildings, use 结实 or 坚固; 壮实 is for living beings

Origin & History

壮 (strong, robust) + 实 (solid, substantial)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal