気丈

• Reading: きじょう
• Romaji: kijo
• Kanji breakdown: 気 (ki) — spirit, mind, feeling; 丈 (jou/take) — stature, robust, strong
• Pronunciation: /ki.dʑoː/

Meaning

Brave; stout-hearted; strong-willed; mentally resilient. Describes someone who faces hardship with quiet inner strength and composed dignity.

A na-adjective (気丈な) or adverb (気丈に) describing psychological fortitude — the ability to remain composed and resolute under emotional or physical hardship. Commonly used to admire someone who suppresses grief or fear and maintains outward dignity. More often applied to individuals bearing personal tragedy than to outwardly aggressive courage.

Examples

1. 夫を亡くしたにもかかわらず、彼女は気丈に振る舞った。 Despite losing her husband, she carried herself with quiet composure.
2. 気丈な態度を保ち続けたが、一人になると涙が溢れた。 She maintained a strong, dignified front, yet the moment she was alone, tears poured down her face.
3. 病を抱えながらも気丈に仕事を続ける上司を皆が尊敬していた。 Everyone admired the boss who kept working resolutely despite being ill.

Usage Guide

Context: grief, hardship, character, resilience

Tone: admiring

Origin & History

Compound of 気 (spirit, mind) and 丈 (robust, strong — originally measuring physical stature, later extended to psychological resilience). Together they describe a spirit of great stature: one that does not waver.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal