強く生きて
tsuyoku ikite
The English phrase "be strong" can be expressed in Japanese as 強く生きて (tsuyoku ikite).
強く生きて is an encouraging phrase used to tell someone to remain resilient and persevere through difficult times in life. This specific phrasing is often used in a poetic or dramatic sense, such as in song lyrics or literature, to encourage someone to endure life's hardships.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase translates literally to "live strongly."
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the te-form (生きて) rather than a command form, which makes it function as a soft, emotive exhortation or a wish for the listener's well-being.
How do you pronounce it?
tsuyoku ikite
Did you know?
- Using this phrase in a casual conversation with a stranger could feel strangely heavy or overly dramatic. Because it implies a deep struggle with the very act of living, it is usually reserved for very close friends or profound literary moments.
- In Japanese culture, the idea of 'being strong' often involves gaman, which refers to enduring the unbearable with patience and dignity without complaining.
- The concept of 'strength' in Japanese is often contrasted with しなやかさ, which means 'suppleness' or 'flexibility' and is considered a superior form of strength.
Examples in context
- 明日はハードだけど、頑張ろうTomorrow is going to be tough, but let's do our best.
- 強く生きて。Tsuyoku ikite.Be strong.
- どんな時も、強く生きてほしい。Donna toki mo, tsuyoku ikite hoshii.I want you to be strong no matter what.
- 自分を信じて、強く生きて。Jibun o shinjite, tsuyoku ikite.Believe in yourself and be strong.
Example conversation
Himari is encouraging Kenta after he faces a personal setback.
- 陽葵 Himari健太、今は辛いと思うけど、強く生きて。Kenta, ima wa tsurai to omou kedo, tsuyoku ikite.Kenta, I know it's hard right now, but be strong.
- 健太 Kentaありがとう。頑張ってみるよ。Arigatou. Ganbatte miru yo.Thank you. I'll try my best.
- 陽葵 Himari一人で抱え込まないでね。Hitori de kakaekomanaide ne.Don't carry it all by yourself.
- 健太 Kentaそうするよ。応援してくれて嬉しい。Sou suru yo. Ouen shite kurete ureshii.I will. I'm happy you're supporting me.
