逞しい

• Reading: たくましい
• Romaji: takumashii
• Kanji breakdown: 逞 (tei) — sturdy, strong; uncommon kanji, often written in hiragana
• Pronunciation: /ta.kɯ.ma.ɕiː/

Meaning

Sturdy; robust; burly; strong. Describes physical strength, mental resilience, or vigorous growth.

An i-adjective describing impressive physical strength or build, or metaphorically, mental fortitude and resilience. Can describe people (a sturdy man), physiques (strong arms), or abstract qualities (a robust imagination — 想像力がたくましい). Often carries an admiring tone. Conjugates as a regular i-adjective: たくましくない, たくましかった.

Examples

1. 弟は高校生になってたくましく成長した。 My younger brother grew up strong and sturdy once he started high school.
2. 彼はたくましい腕で重い荷物を持ち上げた。 He lifted the heavy luggage with his muscular arms.
3. 子供たちのたくましい想像力に驚かされた。 I was amazed by the children's robust imagination.

Usage Guide

Context: personality, physical description, growth, admiration

Tone: admiring

Origin & History

From classical Japanese たくまし, related to the verb たくむ (to scheme/contrive), originally suggesting resourcefulness and capability. Over time, the meaning shifted to emphasise physical and mental strength.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal