とても強い
totemo tsuyoi
In Japanese, "so strong" is expressed as とても強い (totemo tsuyoi).
This phrase is used to describe someone or something that possesses a great amount of power or intensity. It can be applied to physical strength, the intensity of a smell or light or the power of an emotion.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adverb とても (very) and the adjective 強い (strong).
Which one should you use?
While とても強い is the standard way to express this, すごく強い is a more colloquial way to express a similar level of intensity.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express that something "was so strong" in the past tense, change the adjective ending to とても強かった.
How do you pronounce it?
totemo tsuyoi
Did you know?
- While とても is the textbook word for 'very', in modern slang, young people often use めっちゃ to say 'so strong'. This originates from the Kyoto dialect but is now used nationwide.
- When describing a person's alcohol tolerance, the phrase お酒に強い is used to mean they are 'strong' with liquor. This specifically refers to the ability to drink a lot without getting drunk.
- In Japanese, the word 強い (strong) is frequently used to describe a person's skill or dominance in a game or sport, such as being 'strong at cards' or 'strong at chess'.
Examples in context
- 高橋さんは非常に強いリーダーシップを持っています。Mr. Takahashi has a very strong leadership.
- サクラちゃんのパワーはすごく強いね。Sakura's power is so strong, isn't it?
- この風はとても強いです。Kono kaze wa totemo tsuyoi desu.This wind is so strong.
- 彼はとても強い選手です。Kare wa totemo tsuyoi senshu desu.He is a very strong athlete.
- 太陽の光がとても強い。Taiyou no hikari ga totemo tsuyoi.The sunlight is so strong.
Example conversation
Ren and Himari are watching a sports match together.
- 蓮 Ren相手のチームはとても強いね。Aite no chiimu wa totemo tsuyoi ne.The opposing team is so strong, huh?
- 陽葵 Himari本当だね。でも蓮なら勝てるよ。Honto da ne. Demo Ren nara kateru yo.You're right. But you can win, Ren.
- 蓮 Renありがとう。頑張るよ。Arigatou. Ganbaru yo.Thanks. I'll do my best.
- 陽葵 Himari応援しているよ！Ouen shite iru yo!I'm rooting for you!
