堅実

• Reading: けんじつ
• Romaji: kenjitsu
• Kanji breakdown: 堅 (ken) — hard, firm, solid; 実 (jitsu) — truth, reality, fruit
• Pronunciation: /ke.ɴ.dʑi.tsɯ/

Meaning

Steady; sound; solid; reliable. Describes a person or approach that is dependable and avoids unnecessary risk.

A na-adjective describing someone or something characterised by stability, reliability, and prudence. Often used approvingly for business practices (堅実な経営 — sound management), lifestyle choices (堅実な生き方 — a steady lifestyle), and personality traits. Implies a preference for substance over flash, and security over speculation. Contrasts with 派手 (flashy) or 冒険的 (adventurous).

Examples

1. 堅実な経営のおかげで不況でも会社は安定していた。 Thanks to sound management, the company stayed stable even during the recession.
2. 彼女は堅実な性格で貯金を欠かさない。 She has a steady personality and never skips saving money.
3. 堅実に一歩ずつ実力をつけていくことが大切だ。 It's important to build up your skills step by step in a reliable way.

Usage Guide

Context: business, finance, personality description, lifestyle

Tone: approving

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 堅 (ken, hard/firm) + 実 (jitsu, truth/fruit/reality). Literally 'firm and real,' conveying the image of something solidly grounded in reality rather than built on speculation.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal