How to say "vigorous" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 健やかすこやかna-adjective, nounCovers 'vigorous' only in the sense of healthy and thriving — vigorous growth or development. The natural word for a child growing up strong and healthy, rather than for energetic action.
- 活発かっぱつna-adjective, nounMatches 'vigorous' as lively, active movement or behavior — an animated child, a brisk exchange of views. The nuance is constant activity and animation, not physical strength or health.
- 旺盛おうせいna-adjective, nounDescribes energy or appetite at full strength — vigorous in the sense of abundant and flourishing. Typical of a hearty appetite, strong curiosity, or tireless drive, rather than of movement itself.
- 元気げんきna-adjective, nounThe word for being lively, full of spirit, and energetic — 'vigorous' in the sense of full of life and good health. The natural choice for a person, especially a child, brimming with energy.
- 力強いちからづよいi-adjectiveCovers 'vigorous' when the emphasis is on power and force — a forceful, powerful quality of action or movement. Closer to 'strong' than to 'lively'; not the word for a healthy or energetic person.
Choose 「健やか」 for healthy thriving, 活発 for lively activity, 旺盛 for abundant drive or appetite, 元気 for being lively and full of spirit, and 「力強い」 when vigorous means powerful or forceful.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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